01 huis vAn dE studEnt - Antwerpen Studentenstad

STUDENT
guide
2012-2013
EATING
DrINkING
CITY ArEAS
SHOPPING
LEISUrE
CULTUrE
YEArLY EVENTS

04.
-Although this English Edition is vEry much bAsEd
on thE dutch Edition, wE took spEciAl cArE to
complEmEnt thE yEllow pAgEs with indispEnsiblE
informAtion for forEign studEnts. nExt to All sorts
of prActicAl And dAy-to-dAy informAtion, wE Also AimEd
At providing you with up-to-dAtE informAtion on
plAcEs you should dEfinitEly visit. without popping
in to somE of thE pubs, EAtEriEs, clubs or culturAl
cEntrEs mEntionEd in this guidE, your stAy in AntwErp
simply wouldn’t bE complEtE. thE lAttEr is A mAttEr
of opinion of coursE, but thE justificAtion for this
guidE, nExt to its intEndEd AudiEncE, is vEry much its
EditoriAl stAff. composEd of AntwErp studEnts, thE
stAff took pAins to comE up with A bAlAncEd sElEction
of highlights: from thE most wEll-known club in
AntwErp to thE hiddEn gEms in quiEt, cobblEd strEEts
thEy turnEd AntwErp upsidE down. thE goAl: to comE up
with A guidE thAt will plEAsE thE most criticAl nAtivE
‘sinjoor’ As wEll As thE nEwly-ArrivEd forEign studEnt.
wElcomE to AntwErp, city for studEnts.

colophon
Copyright Antwerpen Studentenstad
First printed: june 2012
Creative and art direction: De Poedelfabriek
Editorial staff: Anouk Peeters / Charlotte Jaros / Leen Van den Broeke / Roel Diender /
Anaïs Torfs / Marie-Paule Fritschy / Tine Muys / Hanne Bosmans / Floris Geerts / Mien Gheysen
/ Ben Hermans / Hans Machiels / Mathias Mallentjer /Jorgen Muylaert / Robin Ollivier
Lay-out and design: www.depoedelfabriek.com
Print: Drukkerij Steylaerts
ISBN 978908140090
disclAimEr
None of the addresses mentioned in this guide paid for their mentioning in any way, neither
for the text, nor for the photos. Although we took the greatest care in preparing this guide,
Antwerpen Studentenstad can in no way be held responsible for the accuracy and completeness
of its contents and disclaims all liability arising from its use. Should you find any faulty information,
please submit your corrections to info@antwerpenstudentenstad.be.
Feedback and additions are greatly appreciated.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted in any form by any means, electronic,mechanical, recording or otherwise without
the written permission of the publisher.
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01. City Areas
02. Parks and Squares
03. Eating
3.1 Student reStaurantS
3.2 Sweet
3.3 BreakfaSt & SandwicheS
3.4 when in a hurry…
3.5 when you’ve got time to relax…
3.6 when you’ve got Something
to celeBrate...
3.7 at the end of the month…
04. Drinking
4.1 caféS
4.2 cocktail BarS
4.3 coffee houSeS
4.4 JuiceS & SmoothieS
05. Shopping for food & essentials
5.1 marketS
5.2 SupermarketS and minimarketS
4
8
16
18
20
20
23
25
28
29
30
32
38
40
42
44
46
48
06. Leisure
6.1 Shopping
6.2 SportS
6.3 party time
6.4 wifi-SpotS
07. Culture
7.1 muSeumS
7.2 culture centreS
7.3 the Stage
7.4 galerieS
7.5 other
08. Yearly events
09. Editors’ favourites
The Yellow Pages
Living as a student in the city
52
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118

01.
-from thE sEEdy schippErskwArtiEr (sAilor’s quArtEr)
to thE ArchitEcturAl mArvEl of cogEls-osylEi, from
thE mEdiEvAl stEEn (stonE cAstlE) to cosmopolitAn
borgErhout. AntwErp hAs somEthing for EvEryonE.
hop on your bikE, grAb your trAm tickEt or just strAp
on your boots And you’ll sEE thAt A stAy of EvEn four
AcAdEmic yEArs won’t sufficE to gEt to know thE
diffErEnt ArEAs of AntwErp. homElinEss And bombAst
in bErchEm, souks And Art in borgErhout, lush grEEn
on linkEroEvEr or thE rEnovAting of ‘t EilAndjE And
hEt niEuwE Zuid. EvEn thE nEw york timEs AgrEEs:
AntwErp is EuropE’s plAcE to bE. though morE common
in lAtin countriEs, thE sociAl lifE of thE AvErAgE
AntwErpiAn doEsn’t includE mEEting EAch othEr on
thE strEEts. drinking, tAlking loudly And lAughing in
thE public domAin ArE gEnErAlly considErEd strAngE
And EvEn Annoying, EspEciAlly At night.
/5

6/
Centrum
North of ‘t Zuid, west of Central Station, on the right bank of the
Scheldt River, with Groenplaats as its beating heart. Home to
the main tourist attractions in Antwerp (such as the Cathedral,
het Steen, City Hall and the Brabo-statue), as well as the starting
point of Antwerp’s main shopping streets.
The original student area comprises Ossenmarkt and Stadswaag,
between Paardenmarkt and Lange Nieuwstraat.
Sint-Andries
The southern end of this area is bound by Kloosterstraat’s upscale
antique boutiques and the ever more hip Nationalestraat
in the north. In between are a basketball court and Muntplein,
the graffiti haven of Antwerp.
Het eilandje
Quickly becoming the niftiest area in northern Antwerp, Het
Eilandje is hemmed in by the river Scheldt and the docklands.
It boasts warehouses and blocks that are slowly being turned
into nice lofts and trendy bars. The spiral-shaped building
that dominates the area is the new Museum aan de Stroom
(Riverside Museum) or MAS. The ‘vertical’ boulevard is the only
place in Antwerp where you can enjoy a phenomenal view of
the city for free!
Het Zuid
The area around the Museum van Schone Kunsten (Museum of Fine Arts).
Over the course of a few years, this part of the city has evolved from a
slightly impoverished to a hip and trendy neighbourhood. These days however,
it is downright expensive. You may occasionally bump into the odd
actor or musician, but owners of expensive cars and ditto clothing tend to
dominate the scene. There are still some cosy and eccentric hangouts to be
found, but don’t be surprised if your drink turns out to be twice as expensive
as in other places.
During most of the year, the Gedempte Zuiderdokken act as a
huge car park, except for the six sunny weeks that Sinksenfoor
(Whitsun Fair) pitches its tents on the cobblestones. Waalsekaai
offers night time entertainment the whole year round and is the
yearly venue of StuDay, the official kickoff of the academic year.
Het nieuwe Zuid
Between Brederodestraat (Little Istanbul) and the new palace
of justice, with Bolivarplaats as its centre. New eateries are popping
up one after the other on that square. People who work in the area
like to loosen their tie there. Troonplaats is close by, and a good
option for the budget-conscious. Brederodestraat is home to some
very budget-friendly local shops, owned by the descendants of Turkish
and other immigrants.

Borgerhout
From Plantin-Moretuslei to Turnhoutsebaan, between Central Station and
the Singel, lies the most colourful area of Antwerp. African, Indian, Turkish,
Chinese and Moroccan grocery stores, restaurants and tearooms dominate
the view. The stories that circulate about it rarely do justice to this
neighbourhood and there’s simply no better place for healthy and cheap
shopping. Rental prices are low and increasingly more students, young
professionals and artists find their way to the narrow streets.
linkeroever
Situated on the left bank of the river Scheldt, and accessible via the
bicycle tunnel at ‘t Zuid or the pedestrian tunnel on Sint-Jansvliet.
A residential area foremost, but also the nearest place for city-dwellers
to find a patch of green or do some walking and biking. In the summer
you can get a tan on Sint-Anna Beach, or have a blowout in one of the
many restaurants that serve fish or mussels.
Zurenborg
On the border of Borgerhout and Berchem lies Zurenborg, perhaps the
cosiest area of Antwerp. Mainly known for the open-air Art Nouveau museum
that is Cogels-Osylei. The street is home to the better-heeled, among
which many politicians and writers. Most people go there to hang out on
Dageraadplaats, where children can play quietly and where there is room
for everyone on one of the many terraces. You can’t turn your back or a
new café or restaurant pops up on Draakplaats, a bit farther towards the
railway tracks.
Het noord
The most northern area of the city used to be known as a neighbourhood
that was best avoided, but now it’s one of the city’s most
colourful and youngest neighbourhoods, where there’s always
something going on. The construction of the Permeke Public
Library at the De Coninckplein, the hugely popular Park Spoor
Noord and the many local initiatives, such as Het Noord Ontspoort,
Toer de Nord and Ockxfest at the Sint-Jansplein make this
neighbourhood unique in Antwerp.
/7

02.
Parks and
-thErE ArE lots of public spAcEs in AntwErp.
considEring its stAtus As A mEtropolis, thErE
ArE mAny grEEns And plAcEs to rElAx lEft to
discovEr. nEwly lAid out or cEnturiEs old,
with sidEshow EntErtAinmEnt or A hAvEn of
pEAcE And quiEt, thErE’s Enough to go Around
for EvEryonE. pArk spoor noord is AntwErp’s
showpiEcE, but hArmoniEpArk And stAdspArk
ArE ExcEllEnt spots for picnicking or tossing
thE odd frisbEE.
/9

10/
StadSpark / plan | D5-E5
Antwerp’s oldest park is a good spot for jogging or cycling, but also
for relaxing at the pond or feeding the ducklings. Children can fool
about on the playground’s contraptions while daredevils risk their
neck in the skate park. The Jewish residents like stretching their
legs here too.
Koning Albertpark / plan | D7
If you live outside the city centre, Koning Albertpark is a good option for a
game of football or a bit of guitar playing. This tiny park sits on the crossing
of Belgiëlei and Mechelsesteenweg. Antwerp’s brewery De Koninck is a
stone’s throw away. People say that there’s a direct pipeline between the
brewery and café ‘De Hand’.
park Spoor noord / plan | E3-F3
This brand new park sits comfortably in the area het Noord.
Worn down railway buildings made place for lush green fields and
long walking paths. A skatepark, pond and a café with terrace are
included in the package deal. The park is becoming an increasingly
popular hangout with the young and hip. Laying out the park has
been the first step in upgrading the neighbourhood. With new college
buildings and sports facilities being built in the area, the park
and its surroundings are worthwhile keeping an eye on.
Harmoniepark / plan | D7
This intimate and charming little park is somewhat lost between Mechelsesteenweg’s
traffic and apartment buildings. Nevertheless, it is an excellent
and peaceful spot to escape from the humdrum of student life.
krugerplein / plan | G5
Square near Turnhoutsebaan, between Bothastraat and Cronjéstraat.
At times an open-air event or tai-chi lesson takes place here. Smack
in the middle of Borgerhout, there’s no shortage of couleur locale
on this square. Worth a detour if you’re in the area.
Hof van Leysen / plan | C7
Provincial park in Markgravelei, between the ring road and some main
arteries in het Nieuwe Zuid. Considering its location, the park is surprisingly
peaceful and quiet. Very popular with residents, who organize neighbourhood
barbecues and children’s parties here, most of Antwerp remains
utterly oblivious of this little gem. The park has two faces: lush green fields
and an eccentric playground in front, and the European equivalent of a
rainforest out back.
Het BegijnHof / plan | D4
This often forgotten patch of green lies not far from the student
area: in 39 Rodestraat. Enjoy 16th century houses, cobbled streets,
a park, a pond and an orchard. Most of all: the sacred peace and
quiet of the nonnekes (beguines).

Leopold De Waelplaats / plan | C6
See-and-be-seen, that’s pretty much what this square is about.
The neo-classical edifice that is the Museum of Fine Arts dominates this
epicentre of ‘t Zuid. There are a few designer’s flagship stores here, but the
main draw is constituted by a smattering of diners and bars. Salads and
wraps, pizza and lots of cocktails on offer. If you can afford the parking
ticket, don’t forget to park your expensive car well in view of the terraces,
as most champagne-sippers do around here. In summer, lawn bowling and
relaxing on the museum stairs and benches are popular activities.
groenplaatS / plan | C4
Smack in the middle of the city centre, lined with cafés and restaurants.
A solemn Rubens statue observes the people while the Cathedral
towers over the square. Rich people used to be buried in the
Cathedral, while the poor were laid to rest on the ‘green cemetery’.
Hence the name Groenplaats (Groen = green, plaats = square).
When burying the dead was no longer allowed inside the city walls,
the cemetery in turn got covered in a slap of concrete and lo and
behold: Groenplaats was born. Different events, markets or spectacles
take place here in different seasons.
Grote Markt / plan | C4
As in so many Flemish historical cities, the old town radiates out from the
Grote Markt (Great Market). This particular specimen is commanded by
Town Hall, flanked by cafés and restaurants, and with the statue of Brabo
throwing a giant’s hand in the river. Coaches drive to and from and busloads
of tourists love wandering about. Antwerp people never come here, unless
there’s a demonstration, a wedding or free booze.
HandSCHoenmarkt / plan | C4
In between the Groenplaats and Grote Markt are the Cathedral
and its Handschoenmarkt (Glove Market). Souvenir shops alternate
with cafés, restaurants and hotels, but if you exit Antwerp’s Cathedral,
the less crowded cafés – where (would-be) artists meet - are
on the right.
Sint-Jansplein /plan | E4
Antwerp’s Portuguese community pitched its tents years ago around this
square. Today, countless bars and the host of supporters when the Portuguese
national football team play, testify to that heritage. On Wednesdays and
Fridays, market vendors with their stalls filled with exotic food and drinks
take over.
/11

12/
QuayS of tHe river SCHeldt /
plan | A6-B5-B6-C3-C4-C5
This is where the locals meet on sunny days. As long as the
weather’s dry, there’s always someone barbecuing, picnicking,
strolling, daydreaming, relaxing and drinking or dancing. Every
year, the Zomer van Antwerpen-event (Summer of Antwerp)
stages films and other spectacles in the car park-hangars. In
summer there’s also a luxurious sandy beach, ideal for those
who want to see-and-be-seen. The cocktails here tend to be
stirred with a bit more precision than elsewhere.
Ossenmarkt, Stadswaag
and Academieplein/ plan | D4
These little squares are essentially the beating heart of the student area.
Only a stone’s throw away from each other, the squares are lined with
student bars and hangouts. No wonder that they’re popular places for
students to party or discuss their love life over a pint of bitter. Keep in mind
that people live here too. Use your common sense, keep your decibels in
check and remember that the residents like to sleep at night.
kerkplein BorgerHout / plan | F4-F5
Youths shooting hoops constitute the main draw here, but eateries
for people in their twenties and thirties are on the increase.
The prettiest church of Borgerhout dominates the square. From
time to time, there’s a festival too.
Dageraadplaats / plan | F6
Zurenborg’s central square was redeveloped in 2007. As long as
it doesn’t pour, the terraces get stuffed. The prime draws are the
countless eateries catering for foodies. From fast food to haute
cuisine – you name it, and Dageraadplaats has it. At night,
thousands of LED-lights light up the place. So if you trudge off
from a night of drinking and seem to see lights dancing over your
head, there’s not necessarily a reason to panic.
Hendrik Conscienceplein / plan | D4
Concealed behind some old buildings is one of the quietest squares in
Antwerp. The Carolus Borromeus church, a library that no-one visits and a
fountain that never works form the background for a scene where art students
do their drawings and the rest just has a drink on one of the terraces.
Adjacent Wolstraat sees many students enjoying a beer after course hours.
falConplein / plan | D4
The centre of Schipperskwartier (Sailor’s Quarter - the red light
district) was renovated in 2008. Shady shopkeepers that used to
run dodgy shops and dodge taxes were ushered out and today
the square is becoming a popular spot for eating and drinking.
Mechelseplein / plan | D5
Between Kammenstraat and Theaterplein is another square:
Mechelseplein. The square draws older locals, students and professional
night-revellers alike.

ivierenHof
Definitely Antwerp’s biggest garden, the size of 130 football
pitches. Various bodies of water, tall trees and lush lawns provide
the perfect backdrop for every form of leisure activity. Tram
10, bus 33 or bus 41 have stops nearby. In summer, theatre and
music draw throngs of people to the park’s open-air theatre:
Openluchttheater. For the programme and practicalities visit:
www.openluchttheater.be
Theaterplein / plan | D5
In front of the renovated municipal theatre, Stadsschouwburg, is Theaterplein.
A square surrounded by streets that harbour mostly authentic
shops. At weekends, stall holders sell their wares; on Saturdays those wares
mainly consist of vegetables, fruit and sports socks, while on Sundays you
can find just about anything. To the locals, this square is known as ‘de
Vogeltjesmarkt’ (Birds’ Market). See chapter 5.1 for more information on
markets.
Stedelijke plantentuin / plan | D5
Between Mechelseplein and Theaterplein is the Stedelijke
plantentuin, the local arboretum. Whether you want to update
your knowledge on local flora or are just looking for a romantic
dating spot, Stedelijke plantentuin might just do the job.
antwerp Zoo / plan | E5
www.zooantwerpen.be
Though the cost of maintaining wild animals in captivity is
reflected by the price of the entrance ticket, the investment might
very well be value for money. The English garden at the heart of the
Zoo has been a pleasant leisure place for over 160 years. The homes
of the animals are continuously improved, which - next to keeping
animal welfare organisations satisfied - has the added benefit of
allowing visitors to better enjoy the pranks of elephants or the
splendour of exotic birds.
Vrijdagmarkt / plan | E5
As ‘vrijdag’ means Friday, and ‘markt’ means ‘market’, it may not come
as a big surprise that Friday is market day on this square. Bailiffs auction
confiscated goods for a song here, so be careful when you scratch your
head or toss a wave to a friend. Before you know it, you’ll have bought
someone’s furniture.
Sint-janSvliet / plan | C5
Mainly known for the entrance to the pedestrian tunnel to
Linkeroever, this square is not without its charms. The pita’s here
are excellent as well as the terraces when temperatures swell.
For the sporting types, there’s a basketball court laid out.
/13

14/
Astridplein & Central Station / plan | E5
The largest square of the Central Station area has recently been
refurbished with trees and benches. Here you have a perfect view
on the Central Station. It took nearly nine years to renovate this
unique railway station with its vast dome and impressive iron and
glass roof. It’s considered to be one of the finest in the world.
Sint-andrieSplaatS / plan | C5
This cozy square forms the heart of the Sint-Andries neighbourhood.
Trees, benches, a jungle gym for the children and a few pubs set
the stage for an afternoon of relaxing in the sun with your fellow
students.
Beeldentuin Sint-Pauluskerk /plan | C4
You’re transported back in time as soon as you enter Saint Paul’s Church.
Immediately to your right lies a bizarre but very impressive sculpture garden.
A host of saints, culminating in the passion of Christ, are depicted in a cave.
If you are looking for a quieter spot, you will find one behind the church,
hidden behind the Minderbroedersrui. You can ponder in the garden or go
there to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
SportS and playgroundS
There’s a smattering of playgrounds and open air sports facilities
in the city and surrounding districts. A complete lists falls out
of the scope of this guide, but is available on the website of the
city of Antwerp: www.antwerpen.be
BurGerWeLZiJn / plan | F4
Would you like to see where the little rascal, Willy Vandersteen, grew up?
This is where the creator of what might be Europe’s most famous duo took
his first steps. Time has stood still in this street and on the square at the
end of it, and, for a split second, Willy’s drawings on the walls let you feel
as though you’re in a Spike and Suzy album.

15

03.
-from now on, you’ll know whErE to go whEn
you’rE just not in A cooking mood. good
food for littlE monEy is dEfinitEly possiblE in
AntwErp. likEwisE, if your pArEnts drop by to
tAkE you out for dinnEr, you’ll know whErE
to go for A trEAt. As EAting out is A fAvouritE
pAstimE, AntwErp is wEll EndowEd with rEstAurAnts
And dinErs for EvEry tAstE. vEgEtAriAns
And bio frEAks ArE cAtErEd for too, And pEoplE
with A swEEt tooth or looking for A quick
snAck won’t bE disAppointEd EithEr. wE’ll providE
you with A short list of good EAtEriEs.
chEck www.AntwErpEnstudEntEnstAd.bE
for lots And lots morE.

18/
3.1 Student reStaurantS
With your student card you can eat in all restaurants of any Antwerp university
college or university against students’ rate.
univerSiteit antwerpen
(univerSity of antwerp)
Campus Groenenborger
Groenenborgerlaan 171
2020 Antwerpen
Campus Drie Eiken
Building G
Universiteitsplein 1
2610 Wilrijk
Middelheimcampus
Building D
Middelheimlaan 1
2610 Wilrijk
Stadscampus
Koningstraat 8
2000 Antwerpen
Karel de Grote-
Hogeschool
(Karel de Grote-
university College)
Campus Groenplaats
Nationalestraat 5
2000 Antwerpen
Campus Noord 1
Pothoekstraat 125
2060 Antwerpen
Campus Noord 2
Oudesteenweg 81
2060 Antwerpen
Campus Markgrave
Van Schoonbekestraat 143
2018 Antwerpen
Campus Zuid
Brusselsestraat 45
2018 Antwerpen
Campus Don Bosco Hoboken
Salesianenlaan 30
2660 Hoboken
Campus Sint Lucas
Sint-Jozefstraat 35
2018 Antwerpen
Campus Stadswaag
Predikerinnenstraat 18
2000 Antwerpen

leSSiuS antwerpen
Campus Carolus
Korte Nieuwstraat 33
2000 Antwerpen
Campus Sint-Andries
Sint-Andriesstraat 2
2000 Antwerpen
Campus Sanderus
Sanderusstraat 45
2018 Antwerpen
Artesis Hogeschool
Antwerpen
(Artesis university
College Antwerp)
Resto D’Academie
Mutsaardstraat 31
2000 Antwerpen
Resto ’t Zuid
Schildersstraat 41
2000 Antwerpen
Resto Conservatorium - Foyer
Desguinlei 25
2018 Antwerpen
plantijn HogeSCHool
Campus Kronenburg
Kronenburgstraat 47
2000 Antwerpen
Campus Boom
Van Leriusstraat 227
2850 Boom
Campus Meistraat
Meistraat 5
2000 Antwerpen
Campus Lange Nieuwstraat
Lange Nieuwstraat 101
2000 Antwerpen
/19

20/
3.2 Sweet
lojola / plan | D5
>> Hendrik Conscienceplein 14
Lojola is Antwerp’s best-kept secret spot. Here, Joline Van der
Stighelen created her own gingerbread paradise in the shadow of
the Carolus Borromeus Church. This is where you can come for your
daily caffeine shot or sugar shock: homemade cupcakes, cheesecakes,
chocolate cakes, etc., all served on cute porcelain crockery
that could have come right out of your grandmother’s cupboard. Be
sure to take a little time out to also take in the interior …
Australian Homemade
>> Melkmarkt 44 / plan | D5
>> De Keyserlei 52 / plan | E5
Tucked away in a corner of Groenplaats, this popular ice cream shop is
strictly take-away. On sunny days the long queues testify to the huge and
tasty portions this little shop excels in. For some time now, you can also pop
in at their second branch at De Keyserlei if you’re craving for an ice cream.
QuetZal / plan | C4
>> Lijnwaadmarkt 11
One word suffices to describe Quetzal: chocolate. The ideal venue
for dessert or stocking up calories before venturing into Antwerp’s
nightlife. Chocolate milk is a staple and available in a zillion tastes
and sizes. The chocolate fondue is exquisite. Fruit on a toothpick
and dip away into that lovely melting chocolate.
’t Bieke
>> Korte Gasthuisstraat 8 / plan | D5
You can find this small and cozy ice cream parlour in the centre of the area
‘Wilde Zee’. Apart from homemade ice cream they also serve delicious
pancakes and waffles.
3.3 BreakfaSt & SandwiCHeS
de BiologiSCH-dynamiSCHe Bakkerij
>> Volkstraat 17 / plan | C6
>> Mechelsesteenweg 72 / plan | D6
This bakery is a must for the healthy conscious. Every loaf of bread,
cake, bar of chocolate and freshly squeezed juice is made from PLAN | D5
organic resources and during production the position of the planets,
stars and the time of sowing and harvesting were all taken into
account. Though we can’t be sure if all this hocuspocus has anything
to do with it, the sugar-free buns are very mouthwatering indeed.
Oliver’s / plan | D4-E4
>> Korte Winkelstraat 10
Take your time, because over hundred fillings can be combined with seven
sorts of sandwiches. Their special is called Oliver’s. A juggernaught filled with
homemade tuna salad, onions and a fine selection of spices. Strictly take-away
and popular during lunch time, so you may have to queue for a few minutes.

perruCHe / plan | D5
>> Oudevaartplaats 60
After buying some exotic treats on the Vreemdelingenmarkt, you
can take a moment to rest your legs at Perruche. This former budgie
shop is located behind the corner of the Theaterplein and was until
recently an undiscovered treasure. In summer, the sun is bound
to be shining on the terrace of this bistro, which, as far as exotic
character goes, doesn’t need to stand back for the market. Mother
and daughter prepare their divine sandwiches, tapenades and fresh
soup with love. Breakfast comes at as little as 12 euro. And for the
ultimate sneaky pleasure: there are gossip magazines inside to read
while you‘re having your coffee. Enjoy!
lunCHBox / plan | D4
>> Nieuwstad 8-10
Lunchbox is a healthy food café with eccentric wraps, handmade
hamburgers, bio bagels with an attitude and healthy fruit shakes
on the menu. Probably not the cheapest option, but well worth
a detour while shopping on Meir. Check out the wall of fame on
which local celebrities left their autograph.
Veron / plan | D4-E4
>> Paardenmarkt 80
Popular with students because of its opening hours: 5.30 am. Ideal for early birds
or night clubbers looking for healthy grub. Bread, fillings and filled sandwiches
are on offer.
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Mint / plan | C5
>> Theodoor Van Rijswijckplaats 2
This place is owned by local celebrity and basketball player Pieter Loridon
and though the menu says that Pieter comes by every day, that’s not the
main reason why you really need to come and have a seat on the cosy
terrace! Their various types of ‘toasts’ are so elaborate that you specifically
need to look for the toast among all the tasty goodness on top and in
between. The sun terrace offers you a beautiful view of the fashion museum
and the quaint square in front of you. You’re also right in between Nationalestraat,
Kammenstraat and Wilde Zee, so, it’s all up to you where you want
to go shopping after you’ve had your coffee…
poolplanet / plan | F4
>> Franklin Rooseveltplaats 5
If you thought that the internet café-pool table café was a weird combination,
wait until you hear about Poolplanet’s special breakfast deal. On schooldays
between 7 and 10 am, you can get a free bacon and omelet breakfast. Ordering a
drink is not compulsory, but ever so polite.

3.4 wHen in a Hurry ...
Pizza places
da giovanni / plan | C4
>> Jan Blomstraat 3, 5, 7 en 8
Two branches of Antwerp’s biggest pizza company are just a stone’s
throw away from each other. The waiters, universally clad in red
and white chequered shirts, pretend to be real Italians, cooing
‘ciao bella’ to every lady that passes by. Pizza’s are decent and cost
between 5 and 13 euro and there’s also a wide range of pastas to
choose from. Flash your students’ card to get a 20% discount on
the bill.
Primavera / plan | D4
>> Paardenmarkt 99
Be warned: the menu is in Italian. But even if you don’t command that
language, you’ll most probably eat well here. This romantic pizza place
borders the student area. There’s a terrace too in summertime. 6 to 12 euro
for a pizza.
nuova era / plan | C6
>> Graaf van Hoornstraat 3
At the edge of Leopold De Waelplaats, this pizza restaurant offers
fine pizza’s and pasta’s. There’s a pleasant, busy atmosphere in an
Art Nouveau setting and Jugendstil posters on the wall.
Students get a 10% discount.
Pita restaurants
alexandria / plan | C4
>> Grote Pieter Potstraat 10
Popular pita place among students. No neon lights and the portions
are large. A vegetarian plate sets you back about 25 euro.
Mama’s Garden
>> Oude Koornmarkt 41-43 / plan |C4
>> Statiestraat 1 / plan | F5
One of the more stylish pita places in town, with pelts and masks on the
wall in stead of the typical plastic vines. Large plates come with a variety of
excellent sauces. One of the best known pita places in town, Mama’s Garden
is often crowded so you may need to wait for a table to free up. The place
has a special deal for students throughout the academic year: shoarma or
kebab with salad, chips and a drink for 4,9 euro in stead of 9,4 euro.
pita Ster / plan | B6
>> Gillisplaats 5
The Waterpoort area (around the triumphal arch) boasts a smattering
of Turkish fastfood places that are open day and night. All
of them can vie for the title of best pita place in town. Turkish
men fix you up with a decent pita for little money.
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French fries
frituur max / plan | C4
>> Groenplaats 12
The chips are still being served in an authentic paper cornet. The
place is quite small but with a little bit of luck you’ll find a seat
upstairs. If you’re hungry for more you can always visit the chip
museum.
Other
wagamama / plan | E5
>> De Keyserlei 15
Conveniently located next to the entrance of the UGC Cinema,
this Asian fastfood restaurant serves excellent and quite healthy
dishes; lots of veggies and not too much fat. To be enjoyed at large
wooden tables and benches that you share with total strangers.
There’s a wide range of vegetarian dishes and the desserts
are mouthwatering. Prices between 10,95 euro and 14,95 euro.
Just eat
www.just-eat.be
Hungry but you don’t know what you’d like? Then surf to the Just Eat website.
Every delivery shop in town is mentioned on it. Chinese food, pizza, pita or just
a sandwich, all brought to your doorstep.
Spirelli / plan | D4
>> Paardenmarkt 57
Though not quite a French fries stall (‘frituur’), this little venue
sure looks like it. The only difference is that this establishment
sells pasta in stead of fries. Pick your pasta (spirelli, eastern noodles
or the pick of the week), pick a size (small, medium or large)
and finally one of the ten odd sauces to pour over your pasta. You
can eat in or take out. The décor is simple but pleasant, though
not of the kind that makes you want to stay for hours.

3.5 When yOu’ve gOt
time to relax…
viavia / plan | C4-D4
>> Wolstraat 43
ViaVia is a traveller’s café with branches in 16 cities around the
world. It’s a crossroad where travellers meet and share stories.
The menu is modest in size, but the food is always excellent.
There’s a soup of the day and the main courses change regularly.
The café also boasts a small library with travel guides and travel
stories. Tuesday is jazz night.
reload / plan | D4-E4
>> Korte Winkelstraat 11
Cheap and cosy eatery smack in the middle of the students’ district. Take
out is possible, as well as eating in in the pleasant retro-atmosphere. The
ideal venue for a dinner with friends.
Het laStig portret / plan | D4
>> Blindenstraat 1
Just round the corner of the Academy of Fine Arts is the favourite
watering hole of its students. Staples are chicken in apple sauce
and Mexican tortillas for very reasonable prices. The conviviality
and cosy atmosphere does the rest.
Dansing Chocola / plan | C4
>> Kloosterstraat 159
Don’t be misguided by the name. There’s not much dancing and still less
chocolate going on in this café. Decent Flemish cooking and beer is what
this place is about. The terrace is a must when the weather’s nice. Otherwise,
there’s plenty of room inside at one of the heavy wooden tables. Pasta’s cost
about 9 euro. Steak with vegetables and homemade chips costs 14 euro.
de Burgerij
>> Tramplein 2 / plan | F6
>> Sint-Laureiskaai 8/ plan | D3
The proof of the burger is in the eating. And the hamburgers
served in this slow-fastfood joint are breathtakingly yummie.
De Burgerij serves ten different sorts of hamburgers, prepared
with fresh tuna, chicken, lamb, freshly ground beef and loads of
crunchy vegetables. The nice interior hints at a refectory, but a
very stylish one indeed. Take out is also possible. Healthy burgers
come with a healthy price tag: about 10 euro for a burger.
rode Zeven / plan | E4
>> Sint-Jansplein 7
A cosy brasserie at the Sint-Jansplein. There is no expensive menu,
but it has a pleasant atmosphere which provides a welcome change
to the square. Next to the restaurant, there’s an art gallery which,
according to the owners, was established because in that way they
wanted to make their contribution to reviving the neighbourhood.
Artists are frequent visitors, so if you also want to culturally
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justify your steak with pepper cream sauce, this is the place to go.
Its international cuisine is also a good reason, though. Also offers
takeaway food.
Walrus / plan | B7
>> Jan van Beersstraat 2
Another ‘eetcafé’ (eating café) on the southern edge of ‘t Zuid. Atmospheric
and budget-friendly, this eatery makes the kind of food that Belgian mums
would be proud to serve. Sit on the terrace and admire the sails of the new
palace of Justice or head on inside for good food. Mains are about 15 euro.
Het waagStuk / plan | D4
>> Stadswaag 20
Smack in the middle of the student area, this restaurant mainly
attracts workfolk from the nearby offices. Don’t let this put you
down if you’re in for Flemish grub at good prices. Some of the
specials of the day can be very budget-friendly indeed.
Kompier eethuis / plan | C4
>> Hoogstraat 1
‘Kumpir’ is Turkish for potato and that neatly sums up what this place is
about. The Turkish owners efficiently serve large stuffed potatoes with side
salads. Less than 10 euro buys you a wide range of ingredients to stuff in
your potato.
de BroerS van julienne / plan | C6
>> Kasteelpleinstraat 45-47
Organic ingredients and mainly veggie meals make this restaurant
a haven for the healthy conscious. The chef invents new specials
every day and the menu is surprisingly cheap and,… well, surprising.
13 euro buys you a veggie meal. The restaurant’s catering service
comes in handy if you’re in want of loads of food, yet in no mood to
cook.
De Arme Duivel / plan | D5
>> Armeduivelstraat 1
The translation of ‘Arme Duivel’ is ‘poor devil’. That is decidedly not what
you’ll feel like after tasting the homemade ‘garnaalkroketten’ (prawn
croquettes). The décor of this eatery is a bit rough around the edges and the
service suffers no nonsense, but you’ll make friends here before you know it.
Swallow away your doubts and feast on some of the best ‘stoofvlees’
(Flemish stew) this city has to offer.
den BolHoed / plan | D4
>> Sudermanstraat 3
‘Zaal Jacob’ - now closed - used to be a popular venue for student
parties, but today it still caters for the needs of students, albeit
in a slightly different way. The menu is definitely student proof,
the sandwiches are XL and the service is prim. What more does a
hungry student need?

Amadeus / plan | C4
>> Sint-Paulusplaats 20
This restaurant serves steak and fish, but most locals come here for the 13,5
euro special deal: pork ribs and stuffed potatoes. All you can eat! The décor
and muzak is slightly outdated, which makes the blowout you’re sure to
have all the more appealing.
laS mañaS / plan | D3
>> Ankerrui 36
This Spanish truckers’ restaurant has been sitting here for 30
years, but the atmosphere is still Southern European. There’s
good beer on tap and a load of Spanish wines to taste from. The
Spanish food is excellent, especially the prawn in garlic sauce.
Yam Thai / plan | C6
>> Volkstraat 76
This new spot was opened by the Flemish acting couple, Nathalie Meskens
and Jeroen Van Dyck. Its Asian cuisine offers the proprietors’ favourite dishes
and has received enthusiastic acclaim from many a critical Antwerpian.
It is therefore recommended that you book in advance. The restaurant’s
traditional Thai cuisine is a welcome change for anybody who has eaten at
Wok Away one time too many. It also offers takeaway food and is located at
the street corner where the iconic Funky Soul Potato closed its doors…
/27

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3.6 When yOu’ve gOt
SometHing to CeleBrate…
au vieux port / plan | D3
>> Napelsstraat 130
It’s an absolute must for anybody who craves a little of the atmosphere
of Paris after visiting MAS. It is a gem near the docks and the multitude
of cosy pubs. The interior was imported from Paris, with the result
that the authentic feeling is full circle. When you enter the restaurant,
you practically stumble over the cart with cheeses on display and
you are ushered to your seat by very friendly waiters. If you order
fish, you must share it with your mother or date. The delicious creature
will be brought to your table in its entirety and will be cut right in
front of you. Tasty French cuisine at its very best!
Fiskebar /plan | C6
>> Marnixplaats 12-13
Very few restaurants are entirely devoted to fish, but this one is and a good
choice it was too. The restaurant’s oysters and tuna are hugely popular,
which makes booking essential. Prices depend on the catch of the day.
el Bife / plan | C4
>> Hoogstraat 3
You haven’t really tasted steak until you’ve had one of Bife’s Argentine
grilled steaks. The restaurant might not be the cheapest pick, but the
meat is simply delicious. The best cut sets you back 26 euro, fries and
vegetables included.
Sjalot & Schanul / plan | C4
>> Oude Beurs 12
Tiny but cosy restaurant near the Grote Markt with a no-nonsense décor
and menu and friendly service. Most pasta’s cost about 15 euro and veggies
are taken care off as well.
madre tierra / plan | D4
>> Minderbroedersrui 47
The ladies that run this restaurant have a clear philosophy: respect
for Mother Earth and all her inhabitants. The meals are strictly vegetarian
and consist of mainly sandwiches, pasta’s and soup. Only breakfast,
lunch and take-out service. The food, though organic, seems to be less
friendly to your wallet. On the other hand: there’s a weekly student’s
sandwich for 2 euro.
FelixPakhuis /plan | D3
www.felixpakhuis.nu
>> Godefriduskaai 30
Look for this address if you fancy sizzling drinks, sharp dressers and
jaw dropping architecture. Even though it opened recently, it is already
a household name of het Eilandje. It’s a bit more expensive, but some of the
parties are simply legendary.

3.7 at tHe end
of tHe montH ...
la CuiSine / plan | C4
>> Sint-Pieter-en-Paulusstraat 7
The cheapest restaurant in town is run by youths who had some
issues and get a chance to learn the trade here. The daily special
is 6 euro and is very decent most of the time. The wine comes in
slightly larger volumes than elsewhere too.
mama matrea / plan | D4
>> Lange Nieuwstraat 13
Exotic cocktail bar – ronería – creative kitchen with fresh ingredients. An old
statue of the Virgin Mary above the entrance welcomes everybody who feels
like having some South American soul food or a cocktail. Mama Matrea is
particularly worth visiting on Wednesday evenings, when you can get a starter
and a main course or a main course and dessert for only 5 euro. The food is
always homemade, it is prepared with love and it varies from day to day. Highly
recommended if you like to try new things!
/29

04.
-thE shEEr Amount of pubs, cAfés, brAssEriEs And grAnd
cAfés scAttErEd Around AntwErp tEstifiEs to thAt sEcond
fAvouritE nAtionAl pAstimE: drinking. bElgium is fAmous
for its bEErs. try thEm, but kEEp in mind thAt public
drunkEnnEss is not AccEptEd. thErE’s ‘EEn pintjE’ (lAgEr)
And thEn thErE’s A host of spEciAl bEErs such As ‘EEn
bollEkE koninck’ (AmbEr-colourEd, brEwEd in AntwErp),
‘nEn duvEl’ (looks likE lAgEr, but most dEfinitEly isn’t),
trAppist (bEEr brEwEd by monks). if you’rE fEEling
AdvEnturous, just point At A bEEr on thE list. bE wArnEd
though, somE of thEsE brEws dElivEr An Alcohol wAllop
thAt could sEnd you rEEling. thAt bEing sAid, thErE’s
AlwAys somEthing for EvEryonE going on: lEArning nEw
dAncing vibEs in sAlsA bArs, chEck out thE lAtEst cocktAil
or AttEnd A livE gig in onE of thE mAny music cAfés.
wE’ll providE you with thE EssEntiAls, chEck
www.AntwErpEnstudEntEnstAd.bE
for much morE.
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4.1 CaféS
City centre
BuSter / plan | C4
www.busterpodium.be
>> Kaasrui 1
A pub with a busy stage. Jazz gigs, funk nights and stand-up comedy rules at this
place. There’s always something on every day of the week except on Mondays.
Cuba Bella / plan | C4-D4
>> Grote Pieter Potstraat 8
Based on the dull facade of this bar you would never expect this to be
Antwerp’s number one spot for dancing. If you want to shake your hips
and enjoy a nice mojito you have come to the right place. The atmospheric
samba ensures that there’s never a lack of ambiance. During the weekend
the sensual salsa courses can bring the dance floor to the boil. Everybody is
welcome as long as people are dancing and drinking.
paterS vaetje / plan | C4
>> Blauwmoezelstraat 1
A darling among tourists and locals looking for their favourite -
and rare - brew. This café has over 100 different sorts of Belgian
beer on offer, resulting in an impressive beer list. There are some
surprisingly strong brews on that list, so don’t forget to check
out the amount of alcohol.
Kid’s Rhythm & Blues Kaffee / plan | C4
>> Grote Markt 50
Very popular and well-known among rock and blues lovers. If you’re into
Mississippi Delta Blues, this is the place to be. Good place to watch football on
widescreen TV’s too.
De Muze / plan | C4
>> Melkmarkt 15
A monument of Antwerp’s nightlife and the international jazzscene. Hugely
popular among locals and foreigners, so don’t be surprised to find yourself
in want for a place to sit. Established musicians as well as young mavericks
climb on stage here, which may result in legendary gigs. When there’s live
music, drinks are a bit more expensive.
tafeltje rond / plan | C4
>> Gildekamersstraat 10
What seems to be an ordinary pub, is in effect a meeting place
for night clubbers who want one for the road. At weekends
there’s a brawler at the door. Well-known DJs are known to have
spinned a record here in the early hours.
Plansjee / plan | D4
>> Wolstraat 46
Plansjee is rightfully known as one of Antwerp’s most atmospheric
bars. Not because of the interior design but because the place is pure authenticity.
Young and old find each other over an inexpensive glass of beer.
The quality rock music in the background is added value.

Homey / plan | C4
>> Sint-Paulusplaats 24
The eco-friendly design invites you to relax for a while with a
drink and a book. The pub is cult video store Take Out Video Depot’s
brother, which is next to it. The home crowd is alternative and stays
until the early hours. On top of that they serve the best homemade
Indian lassi.
Kassa 4 / plan | D4
>> Ossenmarkt 21
One of the many well-attended student bars on and round Ossenmarkt.
So why choose Kassa 4? Because everything is possible there, from eating
your sandwiches at lunchtime to dancing on the tables at night.
marmite / plan | C4
>> Torfbrug 8
This dance bar is the ideal solution if you like to dance without
visiting a club. Contemporary pop and nineties music go hand
in hand and you can always request a song. At times it can get
a bit crowded but the vodka melon, the bar’s specialty, makes
up for that.
Camper & Theo / plan | C5
>> Nationalestraat 33
This concept store engages in the blurring of borders between retail and
catering. That makes the bistro the ideal place to take a break in between
shopping sessions and catch your breath, without having to kick the habit
of shoe shopping. It allows you to browse the range of the Camper shoe
shop while you’re enjoying your coffee or tea from café Theo. Thanks to its
enormous terrace, you have a good shot at finding a spot in the sun where
you can also grab a small snack.
Bartilia / plan | D4
>> Falconrui 43
This bar owes its name to the dozens of lime trees – Tilia – which
used to adorn the Falconplein. Six years ago, it was the first of its
kind that dared to open its doors in this former mafia hotspot with
its criminal past. No need to worry, though: the square has been
renovated for a while now and both young and old are more than
welcome on the spacious terrace.
De rots / plan | D
>> Melkmarkt 11
This edgy place is a metal and rock fan’s favourite. They regularly organize
gigs and there is a CD and DVD store inside as well. Currently it is also the
operating base of the famous Lunar parties. Once a month, obviously when
the moon is full, they throw a wicked alternative party.
De Vagant / plan | D4
>> Reyndersstraat 25
This café is all about ‘jenever’ (Belgian gin). Classics such as ‘graanjenever’
(white gin) and ‘citroenjenever’ (lemon gin) and eccentrics such as ‘chocoladejenever’
(chocolate gin) and ‘vanillejenever’ (vanilla gin) are among the
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over 200 ‘jenevers’ served here. The house cocktail is a strong mix of white
and lemon gin plus a few extras.
witZli poetZli / plan | D4
>> Blauwmoezelstraat 8
A small pub is hidden in the shadow of the stately cathedral.
Luckily, the place has not lost one bit of its charm since the
takeover. The pub has a unique collection of tango music, that
you can listen to while playing chess or while enjoying a sweet
Lindemans kriek on draught.
Around Mechelseplein
The Joker / plan | D5
>> Kleine Markt 16
This rockabilly place thoroughly proves that stand-up comedy is getting
increasingly popular in Belgium. Every Sunday and Wednesday it’s comedy
time with local celebrities such as Alex Agnew and Philippe Geubels. But
young talents get a chance as well. On Fridays and Saturdays they play
alternative and rock. Grease up your hairdos!
kapitein ZeppoS / plan | C5-D5
>> Vleminckveld 78
Popular eating café. The food is good and cheap and you don’t
have to wait long before it arrives.
Pallieter / plan | D5
>> Mechelseplein 17
Shelter for night clubbers, this is where the non-official after party of
Antwerp takes place. Pallieter is also home to most of Antwerp’s actors.
The curtains close at dawn, to prevent the crowd from seeing the sun rise,
but even then you’re welcome to join the fun. Loud music and dancing are
allowed.
À propoS / plan | D5
>> Schermersstraat 55
Two years ago it burned down due to a short circuit in the record
player but now it is back as a safe haven for fashionable, young
people. The wine is excellent, the crowd is good-looking and the
vinyl music is exquisite. An ideal place to stick around.
Kulminator / plan | C5-D5
>> Vleminckveld 32-34
The main asset of this pub is the 600 different kinds of beer it sells. It used
to be the regular venue for the ‘Objectieve Bierproevers’, an association that
promotes Belgian beer culture.
De Duifkens / plan | D5
>> Graanmarkt 5
Every now and then this small, local pub is filled with actors. They come
here to brainstorm, to discuss and to celebrate but also to wipe away a few
tears. Be careful with the owner because, regardless of her age, she has a
lot of spirit and will take care of troublemakers.

Het Zuid
Chatleroi / plan | C6
>> Graaf van Hoornestraat 2
A black cat keeps watch on one of the corners of the hip Zuid. It’s king in
pub Chatleroi. The nice wall decorations, worn-out leather sofas and oldfashioned
pub furniture contribute to the atmosphere. And because of the
flexible closing time it is the perfect place for a long night out.
Boogaloo / plan | B7-C7
>> Jan van Beersstraat 1
At the edge of Het Nieuwe Zuid, this no-nonsense pub boasts
a terrace and a second fl oor – with snooker table. The crowd is
mostly liberal and alternative. The bartender is always relaxed
and friendly and there’s some very good special beer on tap.
De nieuwe Linde / plan | B6
>> Pacificatiestraat 49
Conversation tends to be a bit more sophisticated in this large and lovely
café. Hence, the participation of the café to the literary festival Zuiderzinnen
shouldn’t come as a surprise. At times there’s live music and singing.
Caffè internazionale / plan | C6
>> Volkstraat 21
The right place if you like an aperitif and fresh pastrami. The Italian Romanian
owner likes to play funky music while he prepares you a delicious milkshake.
Den Hopper / plan | C6
>> Leopold De Waelplaats 2
Popular jazz café and fixed venue for local celebrities and bohémiens.
Live music on Sundays at 4 pm, when established artists as well as conservatory
students thumb the bass here. If you’re lucky, you might see a
gig on Monday and Wednesday nights too.
paparaZZiBar / plan | C6
>> Marnixplaats 10
Its slogan ‘scandals, coffee & cocktails’ is most appropriate. This
hip bar will welcome you any time, whether you want some tasty
breakfast or lunch or whether you want to go out for a night on
the town. One thing to keep in mind, though: there’s a camera
following you. The photo booth at the back captures your craziest
moments and posts them right onto the bar’s facebook page.
Bad pictures can be forgiven and forgotten with a little help from
the friendly English bartender, who’ll be only too glad to pour
you a cocktail or a martini. What‘s more, the bar has a unique
retro look and a top-notch location: easily accessible by tram for
anyone who’s had a drop too many.
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Het Eilandje
Bar du port / plan | D5
>> Napoleonkaai 53
Free croissants and pastry for early birds in this bistro with a view
on Antwerp’s old port. The interior is made up of vintage stuff
and at noon there’s a buffet with French cheeses. The terrace is
lovely when the weather’s nice.
Kamping Kontiki / plan | D3
>> Nassaustraat 7
The front of this bar is reserved for standing, drinking and dancing.
Seats, tables and chairs are in the back. Live DJs on Thursdays and cocktails
for 5 euro a pop on Saturdays. On Sundays there’s film in the lounge and
free cocktails. The poor fish with the biggest hangover gets a free tequila
and painkiller on Monday.
Het HeSSenHuiS / plan | D4
>> Falconrui 59
A 16th century warehouse turned into a hip and trendy café. The
bartender shakes some excellent cocktails and in the summer
there’s a terrace section. From 9 to 10 pm is happy hour: buy one
and get another one for free. Hessenhuis is not in the least known
as a venue for Antwerp’s gay scene.
Borgerhout and Berchem
De Kroon / plan | E4-E5
>> Kerkstraat 91
The crowd in this famous café – the self proclaimed heart of socio-cultural
life in the area - is distinctly local. There’s some strong beer on tap and
there’s regularly live music or private parties.

Kilimanjaro Bar / plan | E4
>> De Coninckplein 5
Dance hall parties, jungle specials, jazz gigs and monthly heartbeat nights
on Monday: there’s always something going on here. The pub tries to appeal
to a bigger audience and succeeds at it, though the average cut is eccentric.
Bar leon / plan | G5
>> Reuzenstraat 23
Borgerhout is becoming increasingly popular with young people,
which is proven by the many nice pubs that suddenly pop up. One
of them is Bar Leon. The regulars are calm and the drinks keep
getting poured. On Sunday it is Josdag, starting from 3 pm with a
DJ-set: a nice way to end the weekend and to start a good week.
Plaza real / plan | E5-G5
>> Kattenberg 31
One of the few pubs in Borgerhout, Plaza Real is usually fi lled with regulars.
The owner is a local celebrity, though he doesn’t look like one. The pub
gets quite busy from time to time. Ideal place to suck up some Borgerhout
atmosphere.
Café Stanny / plan | F7
>> Stanleystraat 1
It doesn’t matter when you stop by, the welcome will always be warm.
The bar is being run by a young Antwerp couple and they provide the
necessary sparks. You can get inexpensive food with great value for money.

38/
4.2 CoCktail BarS
SipS / plan | B6
>> Gillisplaats 8
The owner and cocktail genius Manuel used to work on the QE2
cruise ship before he opened this exclusive-looking bar in Antwerp.
Hunderds of cocktails on the list and Manuel knows thousands
of recipes by heart. A fine pick of cigars only adds to the
atmosphere.
Mogador / plan | B6
>> Graaf van Egmontstraat 57
This is a den for the bold and beautiful, so put on your glad rags before entering.
Antwerp’s beau monde shares the latest gossip and the atmosphere
tends to be rather stiff – or classy, you decide. The cheapest cocktail goes
for 7,5 euro.

Cohiba Cafe / plan | D5
>> Oudevaartplaats 35
The arrival of Antwerp’s new Latin pub has not gone unnoticed. Every week
they organize a party. Get carried away by the southern rhythms of the
Bachata while you take a sip of your Caribbean cocktail. They serve
delicious exotic cocktails, such as the Cuba Libre and the Brazilian Caipirinha.
aBSintHBar / plan | C4
>> Papenstraatje 1
Fairies exist. They’re green and liquid and you can taste them in this bar. The
amount of absinthe-cocktails you can order is limited (though the choice isn’t),
but you’re still bound to end up tipsy. The atmosphere is a bit formal, but
sometimes a DJ tries to initiate a party.
Café Au Lait / plan | C4
>> Oude Beurs 8
Tucked away in a narrow street behind Grote Markt is a
favourite of swinging, clubbing and multicultural Antwerp.
The cocktails are a cut above the average and stirred with some
precision while a live DJ spins tracks four days a week. The owners
exploit a few club nights too, making this venue a good place to
start your night out with.
VuiLe WAS / plan | C4
>> Grote Pieter Potstraat 16
When you hear the name, translated ‘Dirty Washing’,
no-one thinks about launderettes anymore. This
place is a mainstay in Antwerp’s student scene
and opens up every day, albeit just a little
wider on Thursdays. That’s when resident DJs
and 300 different kinds of cocktails get the day’s
pre-drinkers in the right mood. After sharing a jug –a
tub cocktail – with your friends, you can be sure that
you’ll have no problem at all ordering a Sex on the Beach
or a Screaming Orgasm.
viBeS / plan | C4
>> Grote Pieter Potstraat 14
You can sum up Vibes as a no-nonsense cocktail bar. Here, the
expression “Monday Blues” takes on an entirely different meaning:
on Mondays, you can come to the bar’s basement to admire the chops
of emerging talents who fly the flag for proper funk, soul and jazz. If you
want to have long conversations, however, your best option is to get back
upstairs, since the vibes can be a bit on the loud side from time to time.
Some valuable trivia: students enjoy sizable discounts and happy hour is
between 7 pm and 8 pm.
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40/
4.3 Coffee HouSeS
reviSta / plan | C6
>> Karel Rogierstraat 47
Revista is the Spanish word for magazine and that’s no coincidence.
You could spend a whole day in here with a cup of coffee while
browsing through the variety of magazines. We recommend
the apple pie and the coffee is also to take away.
Daily roast / plan | C4
>> Hoogstraat 13
Prime spot for lunch and breakfast, with or without champagne. Blends and
roast coffee from all over the world with a new special on the list every day.
tHe Coffee CluB /plan | C4
>> Melkmarkt 10
Coffee house that sells fair trade products. Coffee beans ground
at this establishment didn’t cost lives and the farmers in Africa
and South-America have benefitted from their sale. The choice
for fair trade products doesn’t in the least affect the different
products on offer. Gingerbread spice latte, cinnamon snap
cappuccino, anyone? There’s also a salad and pasta bar.
LA CHASCOnA / plan | C5
>> Oever 18
This small, but oh so cosy, coffeehouse is really ‘something else’. Not only
do their coffees, such as Sweet Tiger, Paris Hilton and Don Corleone, have
unusual names, but they also have a surprising taste. To top it all off, grab
a piece of homemade pie and enjoy it in this retro coffeehouse. Don’t feel
like coffee? No problem, the freshly squeezed types of juice are worth trying
just as much!
moCkamore / plan | C4
>> Groenplaats 30
An impressive amount of coffees from al over the world, in all shapes and sizes,
and in some pretty weird combinations. That neatly sums up what Mockamore
is about. If you’re in to coffee with white chocolate (Harmony Coffee) or with a
pinch of cinnamon (Indian Summer) and like to eat a bagel on the side, this is the
place to be.
Starbucks / plan | F5
>> Hall Centraal Station
What McDonalds means to hamburgers, Starbucks means to coffee.
The coffee house mainly aims at travellers who are too early or too late for
their train, but if you’re into a cup of Americano, by all means pop in.

BitterZoet / plan | C5
>> Kronenburgstraat 176
Excellent stop on your way to or from a shopping trip to stock
up on caffeine and calories. Coffee, sandwiches and pastry are
essentials in this place.
Caffènation / plan | D5
www.caffenation.be
>> Mechelsesteenweg 16
Coffee crazy for almost ten years now and recently relocated from their
familiar home in Hopland to a brand new spot. Still in the middle of moving
when this guide went to press. The range of coffees, the space for and the
attention to their own roasting facilities are only set to increase.
Café matiC / plan | C5-D5
>> Vlemickveld 4
If you are looking for a charming coffee bar with some nice snacks
you have come to the right place. The black and white mosaic floor
adds a romantic touch. You can get comfortable in the fifties furniture
while enjoying a delicious cup of coffee.
Barnini / plan | D5
>> Oudevaartplaats 10
This is the place for sweet and happy coffee. The owner makes the nicest
creations for her bagels and coffee: she serves them on colourful plates.
It’s also nice to drink a coffee on the terrace during the Vreemdelingenmarkt
on Saturday.
Broer Bretel / plan | D3
>> Nassaustraat 7
The atmosphere is that of a living room, so it is no surprise that this place feels
like a second home. The concept is very simple, two brothers wearing suspenders
(in Dutch ‘bretel’, hence the name) opened an espresso bar that serves amazing
coffee and a delicious breakfast.
Vandoag is’t / plan | D4
>> Corner of Prinsstraat 2
Loungy espresso bar for students looking for a bit more style. The atmosphere
is pleasant, with sofa’s and long tables and good music. Coffee, with
or without sweet pastry is the core business. There’s a load of magazines to
pick from, should conversation wind down.
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Phil’s COffee / plan | C5
>> Schoytestraat 1
If you don’t like prefab, you definitely need to drop by at this place.
All kinds of coffee are roasted and sealed on the spot and accompanied
by a scrumptious slice of homemade bread pudding, cheesecake
or some other treat that is fresh out of the oven, there and then.
A glance at the menu reveals the wide variety of coffee: the Lotus
with speculoos (spicy biscuit) paste, the Bounty with chocolate
and coconut or the Snowball with white chocolate, vanilla and
marshmallow. If you’re more of a tea person, you will also be able
to find your cup of it here. Oma’s Appeltaart (Granny’s Apple Pie)
of green tea, apple and almond, the Sencha Cactus with fig, papaya
and pineapple, etc. Filip – Phil to the neighbours – will also still any
bit of hunger with crispy beignets or croques (toasted sandwiches)
at democratic prices .
KOLOneL KOFFie / plan | C4
>> Grote Pieter Potstraat 38
The proprietor himself describes this coffee shop as ‘a hobby that got out of
hand’. He now uses the knowledge that he gathered in Australia to brighten
our day here in Belgium with a fair and fabulous cup of Joe. Unlike his
colleagues and competitors in the booming coffee business, he decided to
forgo ‘The Green Bag’ quality label, so that he could really do his own thing.
In addition to having the right retro look, created by wooden tables, vintage
sofas and granny wallpaper, this little coffee house is also blessed with a
cosy first floor.
4.4 juiCeS & SmootHieS
ZeST JuiCe BAr / plan | D4
>> Beddenstraat 2
Set in the mall between Groenplaats and Meir, the staff of this juice bar
squeeze fresh fruit into a healthy juice right in front of your eyes. Next to
juice, you can opt for the homemade smoothie.
fResh ‘n’ fRuity / plan | C5
>> Corner of Nationalestraat and Kammenstraat
Snack bar with toast, grilled sandwiches and a wide range of
fruity juices. Hard to miss because of the flowery coulours of the
frontage. The service is friendly, prim and quick.
PiTTen en BOnen /plan | C5
>> Lombardenvest 31
The perfect pit stop while you are shopping. Someone with a sweet tooth
can enjoy the freshly squeezed juices and milkshakes, they taste delicious.
They also serve fresh vegetable juices for the health freaks.

43

05.
Shopping for
food & essentials

46/
5.1 marketS
Weekly markets are scattered around Antwerp. The
ideal place to shop for fresh vegetables, fruit or meat
as well as a pair of socks, lost memories or imported
curiosities and that thingy that you forgot you were
looking for in the first place.
Visiting such a market is always a good idea, even if
you’re not looking for anything in specific.
Markets are busy, bustling places with loud-mouthed
vendors prizing their wares and locals browsing the
goods. Excellent places to suck up the local atmosphere.

liSt of marketS in antwerp
Wednesday >> Sint-Jansplein | 8 am-1 pm (food)
Thursday >> Dageraadplaats | 8 am - 1 pm (food, organic)
>> Linkeroever | 8 am - 1 pm (food)
Friday >> Desguinlei | 11.30 am - 4.30 pm (food)
>> Sint-Jansplein | 8 am - 1 pm (food)
>> Vrijdagmarkt | 9 am - 1 pm (fleamarket)
Saturday >> Vreemdelingenmarkt (international market):
Theaterplein | 8 am - 4 pm (food)
>> Lijnwaadmarkt (Cathedral) | 9 am - 5 pm
(antiques, fleamarket)
Sunday >> Vogelmarkt:
Theaterplein | (food, fleamarket)
8 am - 1 pm Winter time
8 am - 2 pm Summer time
>> Sint-Jansvliet | 9 am - 5 pm (fleamarket)
>> Falconplein – biomarkt | 8 am - 4 pm (organic market)
Third Sunday of the month (March to November):
>> De Coninckplein – book market | 10 am - 5 pm
Last Sunday of the month (May to September):
>> Lambermontmartre: Leopold De Waelplaats
Art market ‘à la Montmartre’ | 12 am – 5 pm
About six Sundays a year in Kloosterstraat
(dates on www.marktvanmorgen.be)
>> Markt van Morgen (Market of Tomorrow)
market where budding designers show
their creations: fashion, accessories,
jewelry and plastic art.
About every month at Antwerp Expo::
>> Rommelant - Fleamarket
See www.rommelant.be (only in Dutch)
for info.
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48/ 48/
5.2 SupermarketS and minimarketS
Budget shopping
Aldi and Lidl are the champions of cheap products with ok quality,
considering the low prices. You won’t find brand names or the high
quality goods that mum and dad stock up on in these supermarkets and
decoration and atmosphere suffers no nonsense, but that’s the price to
pay for a cart full of goodies for hardly any money.
ALDi
www.aldi.be
Terninckstraat 13, Antwerpen
Sint-Jansplein 8, Antwerpen
Lange Lozanastraat 177-179, Antwerpen
Sergeyselstraat 60, Borgerhout
Slachthuislaan 27, Antwerpen
E. De Coussemakerstraat 2, Antwerpen (Linkeroever)
lidl
www.lidl.be
Van de Wervestraat 82, Antwerpen
Lange Kievitstraat 147, Borgerhout
Slachthuislaan 78, Antwerpen
Carel Van Manderstraat 12, Antwerpen (Linkeroever)

Exotic groceries
You can find just about every staple from just about
every country in Antwerp. The city’s numerous
foreign population likes food from back home so
they opened up their own stores. Most of these shops
are cheap, sell high quality products and seem to
be open day and night, even on Sunday. One of the
most famous shops is Sun Wah (Van Wesenbeekstraat
16-18). A large grocery store in Antwerp’s
Chinatown (which is spread over just two streets).
Soups, noodles, soja, clothes and cutlery at decent
prices. Sun Wah has everything in store if you
want to cook an exotic meal for fellow students,
or try your hand at homemade sushi.
Korte Zavelstraat and Handelstraat are essentially
one large Moroccan market. Fresh fruit and
vegetables and a wide selection of olives, nuts,
cutlery and exotic spices are on offer here. Check
out Euro Food (Korte Zavelstraat 12) and Bilal Fruit
(Handelstraat 24). For the best roast chicken,
go to Mediterane (Korte Zavelstraat 17) or Kip
(Korte Zavelstraat 43). Butcher Chico’s on
Turnhoutsebaan is a good place for chicken and
halal meat, while Al Attari (Handelstraat 13) is
the most popular butcher around.
If meat is not your cup of tea, there are a lot of
fish vendors in the area too. Euro Fish (Korte
Zavelstraat 29) and Royal Fish (corner of Handelstraat
and Lange Zavelstraat) are recommended.
Another street to check out is Brederodestraat
(Little Istanbul): Turkish stores with lots of
quality.
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50/
Environment conscious shopping
Het natuurHuiS / plan | D5
www.hetnatuurhuis.be
>> Otto Veniusstraat 23
Groceries and drinks, a home brand (BioShop), a bakery and kitchen
with a wide range of fresh vegetables, dairy and meat make this store
a haven for the health conscious foodie. Also sells natural food
supplements, cosmetics and plant extracts. The people that run
this business have taken years of training to assist their costumers,
so they’re anything but quacks.
TerrASAnA / plan | C6-C7
www.terrasana.be
>> Brederodestraat 101/Gelijkheidstraat
At Anthonissen-Terrasana you get two supermarkets for the price of one.
Here you can buy both biological nuts, vegetables, dairy, etc…, and your favourite
mainstream products. If you don’t have time to go to different shops
then this is the place to be. Vegetarian burgers, cola, healthy muesli or
chemical sweets: you can put it all next to each other onto the conveyer belt.
oxfam SHopS
www.oxfam.be
>> Turnhoutsebaan 92 / plan | F5
>> Sint-Jacobsmarkt 82 / plan | D4
>> Van Campenhoutstraat 40 / plan | E7
Increasingly popular in Belgium too, this initiative can’t be absent on a
conscious shopping list. Oxfam products all carry the Fair Trade label. Wine,
coffee, tea, juice, rice, sugar, cookies, chocolate, nuts, is all on sale at the
Oxfam shop. Next to these commodities, Oxfam sells cosmetics and all sorts
of trinkets. Quality is usually high and prices above average, but your
purchase helps the poorer farmers of the planet along.

Copy services
Even the most dedicated student misses a class sometimes and needs to copy a course of a fellow
student. A list of copy services:
univerSitaS
www.universitas.be
>> Prinsesstraat 16, 2000 Antwerpen
QuiCKPrinTer
www.quickprinter.be
>> Koningstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen
Copy Copy
www.copycopy.be
>> Blancefloerlaan 22, 2050 Antwerpen
COPY GrOenenBOrGer
www.groenenborgercopy.be
>> Sneeuwbeslaan 35, 2610 Wilrijk
image Building
www.imagebuilding.be
>> Londenstraat 28-30, 2000 Antwerpen
AnTWerP DiGiTAL PrinT
www.antwerpdigitalprint.be
>> Brederodestraat 184A, 2018 Antwerpen
koppie kopie
www.koppiekopie.be
>> Lange Vlierstraat 35, 2000 Antwerpen
MiSTer COPY
www.allps.be
>> Mechelsesteenweg 210A, 2018 Antwerpen
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52/

06.
-work hArd – plAy hArd. studying hArd is good, but
don’t forgEt to rElAx from timE to timE. AntwErp’s
EntErtAinmEnt scEnE lAcks nothing. going out for A
drink is AnothEr dArling in bElgium And A good wAy
to gEt to know thE locAls. thEsE visits to thE pub (‘EEn
pintjE pAkkEn’ in thE AntwErp diAlEct), ArE sEldom rowdy,
shouting AffAirs And you’d do wEll not to bEhAvE
too fAmiliAr or ExtrAvAgAntly with pEoplE thAt hAppEn
to sit nExt to you At thE bAr. EvEry wEEkEnd somE of thE
biggEst intErnAtionAl stArs ArE on stAgE hErE, whilE
AntwErp’s night lifE bEAts to thE coolEst vibEs, whilE
its cutting EdgE fAshion industry guArAntEEs hours of
shopping fun. thE most concisE list for whAt’s on in
AntwErp is wEEk up, AvAilAblE At thE tourist officE And
in mAny cAfés. whEthEr you’rE into music, dAncing,
books, sports or concErts And cinEmA, AntwErp hAs
somEthing for EvEryonE. thErE’s no
ExcusE to gEt borEd.
/53

54/
6.1 SHopping
The pedestrianised Meir is Antwerp’s prime shopping street
and boasts a store of just about every major fashion brand:
H&M, Vero Moda, MEN_at_WORK and Zara for example.
Also international brands such as Replay, Diesel and Nokia
and Base are well represented here. Kammenstraat is home
to loads of denim stores, skate shops and vintage second hand
stores. Nationalestraat and the streets on either side beat to
the same vibe, attracting the young, hip or snobby.
The flagship stores of major Antwerp and international
designers sit between Groenplaats and Leopold De Waelplaats.
South of Grote Markt are a mish mash of clothes stores, food
stores and tourist traps and further on are the pricy antique
shops of Kloosterstraat. Between Meirbrug and Mechelseplein
are small cobbled streets with designers’ shops adjacent to
old school bakeries. Lange Koepoortstraat boasts clothes and
music shops, while electronics and Hi Fi can be found on
Sint-Katelijnevest. At last, there are shopping malls near
Central Station (Century Centre), Groenplaats (Grand Bazar)
and the recently renovated Stadsfeestzaal on the Meir.

New
forever 21 / plan | D5
www.forever21.com
>> Meir 42-46
With its 5000 m² surface area and its three storeys, Forever 21 has
every right to be called shopping heaven. This flagship store offers
several collections: the ‘Heritage 1981’ basics, a men’s collection called
‘21 Men’, the fashion-conscious ‘Love 21’ range and a women’s collection
called ‘Forever 21 Girls’. These catwalk trends are bound to have
something for everyone and are still quite affordable.
MOOSe in THe CiTY / plan | C5
www.moose-in-the-city.com
>> Ijzerenwaag 10-12
MOOSE in the CITY is a unique shop that wants to show us what Scandinavian
lifestyle is all about: design and quality, and the balance that there is
between man and nature and between man and the city. Here, you’ll
find unique furniture, a range of hip clothing brands, accessories, design
products and books. Thanks to the shop’s collaboration with the specialised
NORTH and AWAY travel agency, it’s also the place to go for any information
on the journey north that you’ve always dreamed about. Anybody looking
for travel guides on Scandinavia or literature from this corner of the world
will also soon find that they’ve come to the right place.
paleiS / plan | C4
www.paleis.net
>> Lange Koepoortstraat 39
Trendy clothes shop with mainstream brands such as Vero Moda,
ONLY, Jack and Jones and Blend and Pieces. No need to dig too
deep in your purse here. The atmosphere is fresh and youthful.
COS / plan | D5
www.cosstores.com
>> Hopland 31/stadsfeestzaal
COS is the expensive sibling of H&M. COS (Collection of Style) very much
has its own character. Prices can be steep, but contrary to H&M, not many
people wear the clothes and the quality is better. Simple, stylish and
no-nonsense clothing with subtle details. There are whispers that a second
Antwerp branch is coming,… fingers crossed!
vegaS /plan | C5
www.vegasantwerp.be
>> Kammenstraat 57
If you couldn’t care less about the latest clothes fashion, this
store is your ticket. Collections are inspired by the sixties and
seventies. Those who love a bit of kitsch will be in paradise here.
urBan outfitterS / plan | D5
www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk
>> Meir 78/stadsfeestzaal
This three-story high clothes store is a death trap for fashion vic-
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56/
tims. Trendy clothes, accessories and gadgets for friendly prices
and a well stocked denim collection. The more well-heeled can go
for famous designers such as Marc Jacobs and Sonia Rykiel.
AMeriCAn APPAreL / plan | C5
www.americanapparel.net
>> Kammenstraat 14
Nice store with a nice philosophy. American Apparel is known for its controversial
promotion campaigns and the design, advertising and sale is done by
their own staff to prevent exploitation. The shop sells clothes, socks, shirts
and underwear for men, women, baby’s and dogs. No kidding.
laBelS inC / plan | C5
www.labelsinc.be
>> Aalmoezenierstraat 4
Designer outfits at reasonable prices, that’s what Labels Inc stands
for. Old stocks, samples and second hand clothing from famous
Belgian designers are sold here. Each month, a student from the
Antwerp Fashion Institute gets to dress the shop window.
CLiniC / plan | B6
www.clinicantwerp.com
>> De Burburestraat 5
Wanne be a fashionista? Let Clinic help you. The collection is not just on
the shelves, they also use old hospital benches to show clothing items by
new designers like Joe Rivetto and hip brands such as My Brand. Apart from
clothes Clinic also sells shoes, bags and fashion books. Do you want to be
the first to know about new items? Simply ‘like’ their facebook page or ask
the professional staff for advice. Once you’re at the register you don’t
need to hold on to your purchases, they automatically roll to the cashier.
Like a supermarket indeed.
your / plan | C5
www.your-antwerp.com
>> Kloosterstraat 90
Antwerp’s latest concept store. Nearly everything is for sale here:
clothes, cars, art, bikes, the list is endless. A DJ spins some tracks
while you’re shopping. Or pop in the barber’s section for a haircut.
Second hand clothing
t2-tHink twiCe
www.thinktwice-humana.be
>> Lange Klarenstraat 21 / plan | D4-D5
>> Carnotstraat 110 / plan | E4-F5
>> Kammenstraat 85 / plan | C5
T2–Think Twice is hugely popular with three branches in Antwerp
alone. Regular sales at 2 euro per piece of clothing only add to the
hype. Take your time to rummage through the crates and racks full
of clothing. And you may walk out of the store with a bag full of cool
clothes. Tip: ‘like’ them at facebook and you’ll know exactly when
their sales start.

SuSSieS / plan | C4
www.sussiesvintage.nl
>> Oude Koornmarkt 69
Sussies is a vintage store that sells clothing and furniture from
the sixties, seventies and eighties, so don’t be surprised if you
turn out to be the fourth owner. Ideal shop if you’re looking for
an over-the-top outfit for an eighties party.
Furnishing your room
De KrinGWinKeL
www.dekringwinkel.be
Probably the best and cheapest spot to buy essentials to furnish your room.
The stuff is brought in or collected from everywhere, cleaned, patched up
and may have been around longer than you. There are about ten branches in
Antwerp and surroundings. Visit their website for addresses.
troC
www.troc.com
International second hand chain store that has a couple of branches
in Antwerp too. Second hand furniture, utilities and curiosities are
conceded here, meaning that the owner and the branch earn money
with a sale. A bit more expensive than De Kringwinkel, but the
furniture is sometimes antique or of a unique design.
HaSHi
www.hashi.be
>> Sint-Jorispoort 4
Cute little store with Japanese ornamentals and decoration.
Ideal for a unique touch to your den. The proprietor is fond of
Japanese culture and will be glad to share her passion with you.
Definitely worth a visit, even if you’re not buying.
De KrAK
www.dekrak.eu
Prices are absurdly low in these stores.
It’s hard to find anything that’s worth
more than a few euro’s here. Kitchen
utensils, linens and basic DIY-stuff
are sold for a song here.
Addresses on their website.
/57

Music
Wally’s gROOve WORld / plan | D4
www.wallysgrooveworld.com
>> Lange Nieuwstraat 126
DJ Koenie has been at the frontline of the Belgian house scene for
decades and sent out the message in local clubs as well as Asia and
America. He now owns a record store with a huge collection of classic
house, techno and electro, as well as latest releases. Browse
through the collection online, as only the latest arrivals are stored
in the shop. There’s a big sale twice a year: records at 1 or 2 euro.
FAT KAT / plan | C4
www.fatkat.be
>> Lange Koepoortstraat 51
Large selection of alternative music, guitar heroes, funk and rap. Some
new and second hand vinyl, but especially unique CD’s that are hard to find
elsewhere.

Coffee & vinyl / plan | C6
www.coffeeandvinyl.com
>> Volkstraat 45
This is the result of the desire that Lars, the owner of second hand
music shop Vinyl, had to open up a place that offered more than just
records. He packed up his exhaustive record collection and moved
to Antwerp’s Zuid district. From now on, you can have a comfortable
cup of coffee here, while looking for your favourite LP. Try
to get hold of a seat by the window and page through the various
music magazines. What’s more, this concept store never keeps you
waiting long for your Ice Kool & the Gang, an ice cold latte with
chocolate, or your Jagertea made according to a Granny recipe.
reCord ColleCtor / plan | C4
>> Lange Koepoortstraat 70
If it was released on CD or vinyl, chances are big Record Collector
has it. You could also just browse the huge collection of classics.
Maxi’s of dodgy eighties icons are neatly catalogued next to first
issues of seventies rock bands. The two top floors house loads
and loads of second hand records. Patience is required as there is
no system in the way they’re stacked.
PAnDOrA’SBOx/MeTALZOne / plan | C4
>> Grote Pieter Potstraat 13
Small store that caters exclusively for hard rock and metal fans. CD’s, DVD’s,
T-shirts, buttons of legends of hard rock as well as more obscure bands
abound here.
CHelSea reCordS / plan | C5
>> Kloosterstraat 10
By far the most likeable records merchant of Antwerp has a store
full of vinyl, alphabetically stacked. The big shots are stacked by
artist or genre. A single record doesn’t cost much, but you’d have
a tough time not to walk out of this store with a dozen of them
under your arm.
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60/
Books and media
’T STAD LeeST / plan | C5
www.tstadleest.be
>> Steenhouwersvest 16
This new bookshop offers you a wide range of fiction and non-fiction. As the
owners themselves say, they provide a contemporary, high quality selection.
Apart from spending your time with your nose buried in a book, you can also
come here to enjoy one of the frequent book presentations. The ideal shop
for the bookworms among us!
De GrOene WATerMAn / plan | C4-D4
www.groenewaterman.be
>> Wolstraat 7
This recently redecorated bookshop is famous for its high quality books.
No cook books of the latest starlet here, only high brow and established
authors. Students get 15% discount on their reading list and cultural events,
pop concerts and poetry readings sometimes take place in the cellar.
international magaZine Store
www.imstijdschriften.be
>> Melkmarkt 17 / plan | C4
>> Meir 78/stadsfeestzaal / plan | D4
IMS is a chain store with a ridiculous amount of magazines for
sale. Music, sports, cars, lifestyle, fashion, comics, calendars,
etc. If IMS doesn’t sell what you’re looking for, you can probably
order it at the counter.

mekanik / plan | D4
www.mekanik-strip.be
>> Sint-Jacobsmarkt 73
Comic book store with all sorts of comic books and action figures,
gadgets, T-shirts, masks on offer. No Tin Tin here, but all the more
underground drawing talent, manga, graphic novels and porn
comics. The store stages events such as ‘What’s Your Excuse’ and
‘Art Trek’, a stepping stone for young talents.
BOeKenMArKT De MArKieS / plan | C4
www.boekmarkies.be
>> Hoogstraat 62-64
Something of a hidden gem, this store sells new books, DVD’s and CD’s at
good prices. Lots of overstock available too. In short: a wide selection and
lots of bargains. Open 7 days a week.
fnaC / plan | C4
www.fnac.be
>> Groenplaats 31
Main draw of the Grand Bazar shopping mall with tons of books,
CD’s, DVD’s, games as well as electronics, computers and concert
tickets for sale. Not the most intimate place to browse, but a
good pick if you’re in a hurry.
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6.2 SportS
Antwerp students can sport cheaply, simply by buying a sport
sticker at the Students’ Facilities Services of your university
or university college. It costs only 18 euro and lets you participate
in a lot of sporting activities and events for free and/or
receive substantial discounts.
For free with the sport sticker
· badminton, table tennis
· basketball, volleyball, (indoor) football
· BBB, dance, karate, taebo, yoga and zumba
· floorbal, frisbee, hockey, rugby
· guided running sessions
· Antwerp Students League competition (indoor)
football, basketball and volleyball
· initiations, such as climbing or dance
· events, including Midnight Swim
· international sports competitions
· possibility to rent sports halls of Universiteit Antwerpen

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Discounts with the sport sticker
· fitness · climbing
· tai-chi · tennis
All info, outlets and the complete sport offer on
www.sportsticker.be
On www.antwerpen.be/sport you’ll find a complete
overview of what the city has to offer when it comes
to sport.
Swimming Pools
weZenBerg Swimming pool / plan | C8
www.antwerpen.be
>> Desguinlei 17-19
Antwerp’s only Olympic-sized swimming pool. Open to everyone
as long as there isn’t a swimming contest (and pay the entrance
fee). There’s a separate pool for small children, so the lines in the
big pool are reserved for serious swimmers.
OPen Air SWiMMinG POOL
De MOLen / plan | B2-C2
www.antwerpen.be
>> Wandeldijk 40, Antwerpen (Linkeroever)
In theory, the pool is open from May to September, in practice, the opening
hours depend on what the weather looks like. There’s a small pool for children
and a large one for adults. The patch of green next to the pool is ideally
suited for drying up in the sun.

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SportoaSe veldStraat / plan | F4-F3
www.sportoase.be/veldstraatweb
>> Veldstraat 83
This thoroughly renovated Art Deco swimming pool has been
extended with a bath house, hammam, a dance hall and a brasserie.
The bath house boasts herbal baths, a cold and hot bath, resting
area and a small swimming pool. Sportoase manages this little
gem.
OPen Air SWiMMinG POOL
BOeKenBerG
www.antwerpen.be
>> Van Baurscheitlaan, Deurne
This swimming pond at the edge of Boekenberg park is something of a
unique project. A layer of pebbles and water plants continuously purifies
the water, resulting in a clean pool without chemicals. There’s a set amount
of people that the installation can handle at any time, so you may have to
queue for a while. Luckily, there’s enough room on the lush patch of green
to lie down while you’re waiting and the entrance fee is zero!
Check www.antwerpen.be for a complete list of
Antwerp’s swimming pools.
6.3 party time
The shops are closed and you don’t feel like exercising?
Then it’s time to go out! The best nights to do so are,
without doubt, Thursdays and Saturdays. But make sure to
check the websites because a lot of clubs open on other days
as well. If you don’t want to stay up all night, then try the
concert halls and the movie theatres.

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Nightlife
kavka / plan | C5-D5
www.kavka.be
>> Oudaan 14
A bustling and thriving youth centre with a nice party area. Many
drum&bass parties with young talented DJs learning the ropes.
The occasional MCbattles are another eye catcher. Keep your eye
on that party calendar!
reD AnD BLue / plan | C3
www.redandblue.be
>> Lange Schipperskapelstraat 11-13
The gay discotheque of Antwerp but open to everyone on Thursdays.
Gay women gather each second Sunday of the month, but gay men constitute
the main audience, especially on Saturday when it’s men only. Buy a membership
card on your first visit as this disco is technically a private club. The Red and
Blue people also stage Studio 54 at Sportpaleis, the biggest disco party in
the world.
Café loCal / plan | B6
www.cafelocal.be
>> Waalsekaai 25
This club appeals to a wide audience. Especially interesting for
students are the Local Thursdays and Paradise Saturdays. The after
work parties such as Pré-Soirée attract working people and students
alike. The club used to be known for techno parties, but nowadays
it beats to salsa and global grooves.
Café d’anveRs / plan | C3-D4
www.cafedanvers.com
>> Verversrui 15
One of the most popular clubs in Antwerp with free entrance on
Thursdays. On Fridays you pay to enter, but the parties - such as
Push It and Easy F*ck - are great. The club does acid and techno
as well as electro at weekends. You’ll need to venture out in the
red light district, to get there.
PeTrOL / plan | A7
www.petrolclub.be
>> d’Herbouvillekaai 25
A large renovated warehouse in ‘t Zuid. Petrol is one of the biggest alternative
clubs in Belgium. Rock, reggae and hip hop concerts at weekends as well as
on weekdays. On Saturdays the club does electro and minimal. Good party
place for the alternative student.
Stereo Six / plan | B6
www.stereosix.be
>> Luikstraat 6
The best address for all the ladies looking for a rich man. This
trendy club in ‘t Zuid is part of the Velvet Group, owners of the
Velvet Cityzen and Bilbao (cocktail) bars, and is likewise stylishly
decorated. Each Saturday Stereo Six offers a mix of house and soul
that will get your booty shaking. The entrance fee is about 10 euro.

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Concert halls
cc LuCHTBAL / plan | E1
www.ccluchtbal.be
>> Columbiastraat 110
Luchtbal may not be the most fancy area of Antwerp, and with its shapeless
apartment buildings not exactly a centre of culture, but cc (culture centre)
Luchtbal works hard to remedy all that. The community centre brings the
residents together on barbecues and dance afternoons, invites schools to
children’s theatre shows and stages jazz and rock gigs and electro nights.
trix / plan | G4-G5
www.trixonline.be
>> Noordersingel 28-30
This music centre has everything for budding creative talent to
develop. Rehearsal shacks, professional recording studios, work
stations for fledgling video artists and website developers and
workshops where professional musicians or graphic designers
teach tips and tricks. The concert hall sees wide use, rock and
hip hop next to dubstep and drum&bass parties. Adjacent Trix is Hof
Ter Lo. Not the most atmospheric concert hall in Antwerp, but well
equipped to host acts as Cee lo Green, The Kills or Queens of the
Stone Age.

Cinemas
de roma / plan | G5
www.deroma.be
>> Turnhoutsebaan 286
One of the last grand film theatres of the old days, Roma was derelict
until volunteers of Rataplan (a non-profit organization) renovated
this Art Deco building of 1928. Cinema lovers, theatre, jazz and
world groove fans are well provided for here.
uGC CineMA / plan | E5
www.ugc.be
>> Van Ertbornstraat 17
The only place in the city centre where Tinseltown products really shine.
Everything is as it’s supposed to be: huge halls, giant screens and hot nachos
and popcorn. No need to look for car parks, the theatre is readily accessible
by public transport.
kinepoliS antwerpen / plan | E1
www.kinepolis.be
>> Groenendaallaan 394
Outside the city centre is Antwerp’s biggest theatre. 30 halls, red
carpet and dozens of food and drink courts. Last but not least:
a sound system that makes your ears pop. Premieres of Belgian
films take place here too. There’s ample parking space, but bus
and tram stops are nearby.
You can register on their website for the Kinepolis Student Card and
then a ticket will only set you back 6,90 euro (instead of over 9 euro).
CArTOOn’S / plan | C4
www.cartoons-cinema.be
>> Kaasstraat 4-6
Small and intimate film theatre that stages art house cinema and international
films. Hardly any Hollywood products, unless the particular film manages to
avoid all clichés. The staff are very helpful and friendly.
Cinema Zuid / plan | B6
www.cinemazuid.be
>> Lakenstraat 14
Ironically, Cinema Zuid – the Film Museum – is located in the
FotoMuseum (Museum of Photography). Cinema Zuid daily plays
forgotten, lost or remade gems of film history in two beautiful
theatres. Museum staff offer background to the films shown and
budding or innovative talent gets a shot at Cinema Zuid.
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6.4 wifi-SpotS
BAr D’OFFiCe / plan | E4
www.bardoffice.com
>> Dambruggestraat 29-31
Creative entrepreneurs should visit Bar d’office. This is the place to be for
co-working, which is a trendy name for self-employeds working together.
That’s why they serve more than coffee and sandwiches, they can also
provide you with an internet connection, printers and meeting rooms. Only
members can use these facilities. You can become one for as little as 1 euro
for a day. Consider the membership fee as an investment, because this
co-working could result in a great business deal!
Caravan / plan | E3
>> Damplein 17
Do you occasionally long for the time when mama filled your lunch
box with goodies? Then make sure to visit CARAVAN, where you
can order a lunch box for 5 euro, filled with an apple, a biscuit and
sandwiches. But this time it’s not mommy who decides the filling
but you. You can enjoy your lunch while surfing on the net via the
WIFI connection. Once you’ve checked your mailbox you can rent
a stuffed picnic basket and go to Park Spoor Noord, nearly opposite
CARAVAN, with your girlfriend or mates.
YeLLOW SuBMArine
CreATiVe COFFeeBAr / plan | D4
www.yellowsubmarine.be
>> Falconplein 51
Yellow Submarine Creative Coffeebar. Say it out loud for a few times and the
first lines of a new song or a poem are born. The free internet allows you
to discover where you heard the term ‘yellow submarine’ before. The bar
closes at 6 pm but inspired people can rent a room (there’s a bed&breakfast
at Yellow Submarine) and write until the early morning comes.
Breakfast will be waiting for you.
Cargo ZomerBar / plan | E3
www.cargozomerbar.be
>> Park Spoor Noord
The most relaxing place to study is without a doubt Cargo Zomerbar.
The bar is located in the centre of Park Spoor Noord and serves
delicious pizzas, tapas, freshly prepared salads and heavenly cocktails.
Wriggle yourself into a deck chair, enjoy the sun and consult
Blackboard via the WIFI connection. This is also handy to enjoy
the latest songs and to drown out the noise of children playing.

‘By American standards Antwerp is small. Yet you have a lot more
to offer than the average American town. A restaurant, French fries
stall or pita place on each corner, a gothic cathedral competing
with a modern skyscraper and streets filled with Art Nouveau
houses. Every night a party or something cultural going on. One
downside: you guys drive like maniacs.’ Duly Noted.
Dustin, 25 years, international student linguistics
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07.
CUltURe
-from rubEns to pAnAmArEnko, AntwErp hAs AlwAys
bEEn At thE culturAl forEfront. doZEns of musEums,
gAlEriEs, culturE cEntrEs And thEAtErs providE
A dAZZlingly widE rAngE of culturAl ExpEriEncEs,
whEthEr thEy ArE from thE pAst, prEsEnt or futurE.
thE culturE vouchErs of AntwErpEn studEntEnstAd
Allow you to ApprEciAtE high Art At wArm pricEs. 10
Euro buys you An uniquE booklEt with sEvEn thEmEd
vouchErs. wE hAndpickEd dAncE, music, film, clAssicAl
music, librAry, musEum And thEAtrE.
thE vouchErs givE you AccEss to Almost 40 pArticipAting
AntwErp culturE housEs, musEums or lEt you bEcomE
A mEmbEr of thE public librAry. morE informAtion,
outlEts And pArticipAting culturE housEs on
www.AntwErpEnstudEntEnstAd.bE
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7.1 muSeumS
koninklijk muSeum voor
SCHone kunSten / plan | C6
www.kmska.be
>> Leopold De Waelplaats 1-9
Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp. This neoclassical edifice is
stuffed with works of dead painters, mostly of Spanish- Netherlands
and Belgian descent. Excellent place to admire the works of Rubens,
Van Dyck, Ensor and others.
Late April 2011 KMSKA closed its doors for a major renovation project
which will last until 2017 and will double the exhibition space.
A selection of 120 masterpieces from their permanent collection
can still be viewed at MAS. At Koningin Fabiolazaal (Jezusstraat
28) they show their modern collection in varying exhibitions.
On top of the prestigious flagships listed above, there’s also the Silver
Museum, Diamond Museum, Museum Plantin-Moretus, Mayer
Van den Bergh, the Cathedral and many more institutes exhibiting
the past or interesting artifacts.
MODeMuSeuM (MOMu)
en FLAnDerS
FASHiOn inSTiTuTe / plan | C5
www.momu.be
>> Nationalestraat 28
The Antwerp Six made the city famous all over the world in terms of fashion.
Every year, many fashionistas and fashion students travel to Antwerp to get a
glimpse of all the beauty in store in the city’s shopping streets. But they
also come to take a look at the gallery of Antwerp’s fashion museum, MoMu.
The museum’s exhibitions are considered very carefully and provide a beautiful
balance between established names and trendy newcomers in the world
of fashion and art. If you decide to visit MoMu, be sure to check out the
bookshop on the ground floor. The selection of books on architecture,
photography and fashion is one of the very best to be found in the city.
fotomuSeum / plan | B6
www.fotomuseum.be
>> Waalsekaai 47
In the Museum of Photography Diesel posters share the walls with
trendsetting artists such as Daguerre and Nièpce. There’s a permanent
exhibition on the history of photography, from its beginnings
until now. Next to that the museum stages exhibitions on certain
photographers, such as Karl De Keyzer or certain themes, such as
the 50th anniversary of Congo’s independence.

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m Hka / plan | B5
www.muhka.be
>> Leuvenstraat 32
Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp. Art in its most modern,
weird and contemporary form. The museum boasts a vast collec-
tion with much Belgian work. The pieces on display are regularly
changed or presented in a different way and there are three exhi-
bitions every year. Big names such as Jan Fabre work here side by
side with budding artists. The roof terrace of the café (M HKAFE)
is wonderful.
MiDDeLHeiMMuSeuM / plan | D10-E10
www.middelheimmuseum.be
>> Middelheimlaan 61
Here, it sometimes seems as though you’ve ended up in a fairy tale. You
find yourself walking among the most beautiful of statues and the fabulous
natural scenery of the Middelheim Park. The museum often features idiosyncratic
exhibitions or installations by national and international artists.
But the permanent collection is also a must for all art-loving students. You
can spend a great time making sketches or just enjoy a pleasant walk. No
need to pay an entrance fee either. The museum café, run by Peter Reel, is
well worth visiting. Now and then, during the summer months, he organises
a killer party there. You’ll feel just as if you’re on holiday: warmly recommended!
maS / plan | D3
www.mas.be
>> Hanzestedenplaats 1
Barely open for a year and already a household name in the city. The
Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) is a gem that inspires great pride in
Antwerp’s inhabitants. The architecture of the building catches
one’s eye immediately. It’s located in the middle of het Eilandje,
and that’s no coincidence. This is the historic port area that gave
Antwerp its major place in the world of trade, from the early Middle
Ages to date. But don’t get too carried away by the height just yet,
because then you’ll miss the first work of art. On the square in front
of the museum is a mosaic by Luc Tuymans of 1600 m², which he
named ‘Dead Skull’. The MAS changed not only the view but also
the entire neighbourhood. In a very short time, het Eilandje has
become one of Antwerp’s hippest neighbourhoods. So if you are
visiting the MAS, you can afterwards go for a culturally acceptable
beer in one of the many new bars.

7.2 Culture CentreS
cc BerCHem
www.ccberchem.be
cc De Kern
www.ccdekern.be
co Sint-andrieS
www.cosintandries.be
cc Deurne
www.ccdeurne.be
cc merkSem
www.ccmerksem.be
cc De SCHeLDe
www.ccdeschelde.be
cc link
www.cclink.be
cc LuCHTBAL
www.ccluchtbal.be
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7.3 tHe Stage
arenBergSCHouwBurg / plan | D5
www.arenbergschouwburg.be
>> Arenbergstraat 28
Arenberg Theatre stages comedy events with national and inter-
national icons such as Henry Rollins, Alex Agnew, and, well, Geert
Hoste on stage. Pop, jazz and rock bands are regular guests and
from time to time, there’s an exhibition. In the summer, Arenberg
stages its events at the Open Air Theatre Rivierenhof.
DeSinGeL / plan | C8
www.desingel.be
>> Desguinlei 25
Antwerp’s temple of culture par excellence divides up its programme in
roughly four sections: dance, theatre, music and architecture. Not only does
this international arts campus offer culture from Belgium and abroad, but it
is also home to the conservatory students. The Grand Café deSingel offers
you a host of tasty treats with a surreal view of the Antwerp ring road on
the side.
de Zwarte komedie / plan | C4-D4
www.dezwartekomedie.be
>> Leguit 15-17
Unruly and comical, anarchistic and eloquent. De Zwarte Komedie
(Black Comedy) became notorious with the poster of their pro-
duction ‘Uit Zelfbevrediging’ (In Self Gratification), a parody on
an election poster of right-wing political party Vlaams Belang. De
Zwarte Komedie has been the enfant terrible of Flanders’ theatre
scene ever since.
De rOMA / plan | G5
www.deroma.be
>> Turnhoutsebaan 286
One of the last grand film theatres of the old days, Roma was derelict until
volunteers of Rataplan (a non-profit organization) renovated this Art Deco
building of 1928. Cinema lovers, theatre, jazz and world groove fans are well
provided for here.
rataplan /plan | G5
www.rataplanvzw.be
>> Wijnegemstraat 27
Smack in the middle of Borgerhout, this little culture temple
mainly aims at the local residents. The atmosphere is homely and
not in the least provided by the many hard-working volunteers
that form the core of Rataplan. The non-profit organization stages
a wide range of musical productions, drama, film and workshops.
Both high and low brow productions for children and adults – and
in other languages than Dutch too.

MOnTY / plan | C6
www.monty.be
>> Montignystraat 3
The best place for cutting-edge drama. The audience is young, critical and
self-willed, with resident theatre companies to match. There’s also room on
the schedule for concerts, video art, debates and the odd party.
Bourla/toneelHuiS / plan | D5
www.toneelhuis.be
>> Komedieplaats 18
The artistic director of Antwerp’s Toneelhuis is Guy Cassiers, a
man who can write his share of inspiring pieces and who is unmatched
when it comes to directing creative companies. It is also
under his leadership that Olympique Dramatique became truly
successful. If you plan on going to the Toneelhuis, make sure you
try to catch a piece by this permanent company. Their pieces are
an amalgamation of drama, absurdity, modesty and, particularly, a
lot of humour. They’re not afraid of creating havoc in the exquisite
theatre either, and having people dancing, partying and drinking
until the early hours.
THeATer ZuiDPOOL / plan | D4
www.zuidpool.be
>> Lange Noordstraat 11
Zuidpool produces readily accessible drama for a wide audience. Comedy
and references to current affairs are trademarks.
fakkelteater
www.fakkelteater.be
>> Hoogstraat 12 / plan | C4
>> Reyndersstraat 7 / plan | C4
Burlesque, monologues, popular comedy and stock plays. Fakkeltheater
has five theatre halls, plenty of room to stage different
aspects of the dramatic trade.
KOninKLiJK BALLeT
VAn VLAAnDeren /plan | D3
www.koninklijkballetvanvlaanderen.be
>> Kattendijkdok-Westkaai 16
Royal Ballet of Flanders brings romantic, classical and cutting edge ballet,
performed by the world’s most nimble dancers.
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HetpaleiS / plan | D5
www.hetpaleis.be
>> Meistraat 2
Mainly shows for children and youths, with the occasional production
of Dimitri Leue or Stefan Perceval for grown-ups.
eCHT AnTWAArPS TeATer / plan | D5
www.echtantwaarpsteater.be
>> Arenbergstraat 10
Brush up your knowledge of the Antwerp dialect. Entertainment for common
people in the ‘Antwaarps’ dialect.
StadSSCHouwBurg / plan | D5
www.stadsschouwburgantwerpen.be
>> Theaterplein 1
Stadsschouwburg, is the ultimate gathering place for musicals,
dance spectacles, ballet and cabaret. It often has a rather commercial
programme, but sometimes, it offers very intimate dance
performances. Ticket prices are not what you’d call democratic, but
if you’re quick, you can usually get tickets for prices ranging from
15 to 20 euro.

7.4 galerieS
de Zwarte panter / plan | C4
www.dezwartepanter.com
>> Hoogstraat 70-74
Of Antwerp’s many galleries, De Zwarte Panter is the most pres-
tigious – and one of the oldest, founded over 40 years ago. Home to
established artists such as Fred Bervoets, but young and budding
talent is more than welcome too.
exTrA CiTY / plan | F3
www.extracity.org
>> Tulpstraat 79
The decoration of this gallery was kept to a minimum because the owners
prefer to spend their money on projects and artists. Extra City switches
locations now and then, having already renovated an old grain silo and
dockland warehouse, they’re currently located near Damplein. Up to date
with contemporary art with a new exhibition every two months.
annette de keySer / plan | D3-D4
www.annettedekeyser.com
>> Generaal Belliardstraat 19
Mrs. De Keyser wields three selection criteria: authenticity,
honesty and passion. Local and foreign artists – well established
people such as Filip Metten – have exhibited at this tiny gallery.
Booking ahead is recommended – oh, and the opening hours are a
bit eccentric too.
Annie GenTiLS / plan | D6
www.anniegentilsgallery.com
>> Peter Benoitstraat 40
Among the regular artists on exhibition are Wesley Meuris, Kris Vleeschouwer,
Andrew Webb and Filip Vercaet. All of them do well on international art
shows, with works in public and private collections all over the globe. This
gallery has a knack for spotting budding talent.
Zeno x gallery / plan | C6
www.zeno-x.com
>> Leopold De Waelplaats 16
Frank Demaegd is probably one of Antwerp’s most famous gallery
owners. The carefully considered, yet daring, choices he made in
the past are clearly bearing fruit. He is unmatched in his ability
to attract talent. His gallery has pieces by acclaimed artists, such
as Luc Tuymans, Michaël Borremans and Marlène Dumas. Most
of us will have to stick to watching, because fame like this comes
with a serious price tag. Watch out, though: the gallery is only open
from Wednesday to Saturday and it is so inconspicuous that you
would walk right past it. And you really do not want to miss this
collection!
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VALerie TrAAn GALLerY / plan | C4
www.valerietraan.be
>> Reyndersstraat 12
Veerle Wenes didn’t want to start another dime-a-dozen gallery at the
Zuid that would just become part of the scenery. And she succeeded. Not
just because of the property’s central location, but also because of her
refreshing selection. Her collection stands out because it explores the area
of tension between art and design. She taps heavily into the contemporary
trend of combining multiple disciplines, and it works. This has become a
place where a design that brings about a breath of fresh air and original art
go hand in toiling hand and it will give you tons of inspiration to redo your
digs or room.
Hole of tHe fox / plan | F5
www.holeofthefox.tk
>> Bloemstraat 24
This gallery absolutely lives up to its name: you really do descend
into a lair. You pass through a wide wooden gate and end up in an
industrial building that is lit up by a few fluorescent lamps. There’s
a special underground atmosphere about the place and the art on
display was created by young, up-and-coming artists. They don’t
want to be a traditional gallery that has to mind all kinds of conventions.
There is a fine contrast between the purity of the art and
the rawness of the building. The artistic creations here are devoid
of any capitalist aftertaste, which makes it one of the best places in
Antwerp to discover new talent.

7.5 otHer
ZuiderperSHuiS / plan | B6
www.zuiderpershuis.be
>> Waalsekaai 14
Very popular world culture centre. The best address for docu-
mentaries about other continents or hip hop crossover. Shows
tend to fill up quickly, so make sure you’re on time and book ahead.
Zuiderpershuis also has an excellent restaurant and a quiet terrace
in the back.
defilHarmonie
www.defilharmonie.be
Internationally renowned, deFilharmonie (Philarmonic Orches-
tra) specialises in classical and contemporary music. Their home
base in Antwerp is Koningin Elisabethzaal (Koningin Astridplein
26) or the chapel of Elzenveld (Lange Gasthuisstraat 33-39).
VLAAMSe OPerA /plan | B6
www.vlaamseopera.be
>> Frankrijklei 3
Opera with a twist; the Opera.Explorer programme of Flemish Opera stages
opera shows in an audacious way. Tip: try popping up fifteen minutes
before the show starts as any tickets (even the best seats) that haven’t been
reclaimed are sold for 8 euro.
deSignCenter de winkelHaak / plan | E4
www.winkelhaak.be
>> Lange Winkelhaakstraat 26
Anybody who’s looking for young, innovative design owes himself
or herself a visit to this design centre. They invariably present the
newest trends and organise events, exhibitions, flea markets and
workshops to promote both their own work and new talent. The
nice thing about this concept is the fact that you can often get your
hands on an original. It is important that you visit their site often,
if you want to stay on top of what they’re doing.
STuDiO ViLLAneLLA / plan | D5
blog.villanella.be
>> Maarschalk Gérardstraat 4
A new platform for young artists has been born. Since August of 2011, this
has been the new artistic home base for young, creative talent. You don’t
need much to be inspired. The exquisite building is an unparalleled location
for this type of project. It used to be the headquarters of the old Studio
Herman Teirlinck and has now been converted into the Villanella arts centre.
The aim is to organise presentations and exhibitions for and by young
people. If you don’t want to miss a single sensory impulse, your best option
is to consult their blog and take a look at their extensive programme.
AMuZ / plan | C5
www.amuz.be
>> Kammenstraat 81
Whether it’s European, African or Asian – AMUZ brings music as it was
meant to be played, traditional and classical. Set in a baroque church,
there’s hardly a better setting to enjoy classical music.
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08.
yearly
events

88/
Straatlaweit
www.straatlaweit.be
Straatlaweit (Street Noise) groups a host of street events and
festivals such as Ockxfest, Linkerwoofer and Soulfest. All of them
in Antwerp, all of them guarantee pleasant atmosphere, markets,
drinks and music. Visit the website for more information.
LAunDrY DAY
www.laundryday.be
What started out as a small street party in the Kammenstraat grew to
become one of the city’s wildest open air parties. Laundry Day literally
burst out of its seams, but it has now finally found its home at Nieuw Zuid.
Famous national and international deejays give it their all the whole day
long. Tickets aren’t cheap, but if you go, you won’t regret the expense for
a minute.
Studay
www.studay.be
Every year, Antwerpen Studentenstad welcomes 38 000 students
with a huge opening party at Gedempte Zuiderdokken. The official
kickoff of the academic year boasts live music, sport, information
and culture, with parties that go like a bomb to end the day with!
Make sure to mark your calendar!
MArKT VAn MOrGen
www.marktvanmorgen.be
Markt van Morgen (Market of Tomorrow) presents and sells pert design
talent in and around Kloosterstraat, on a fair with accessories, fashion,
jewelry, graphic work and interior design on offer. The bar and drinks stand
are a big success too.
duBieuS deSign
www.dubieusdesign.be
Vintage and design market, collectors offer their wares for little
money. Twice a year, alternately indoors and outdoors.
ZOMer VAn AnTWerPen
www.zomervanantwerpen.be
During the summer, Zomer van Antwerpen (Summer of Antwerp) stages
all kinds of events throughout the city. Open air theatre, summer beaches,
circus, gigs and comedy. Book well ahead, as the events are hugely popular.
wintervuur
www.wintervuur.be
Biannual city festival at the year’s end with theatre, circus,
concerts and lots more. In the past held at Linkeroever, but now
relocated at Hoboken.

BeiAArDCOnCerT
www.beiaard.org
Carillon concerts in the Cathedral of Our Lady. From May to September every
Sunday from 3 to 4 pm. And in summer (June – August) there are concerts on
Monday nights between 8 and 9 pm.
SinkSenfoor (wHitSun fair)
www.antwerpse-sinksenfoor.be
Yearly fun fair, for five weeks after Whitsun. Sinksenfoor is Ant-
werp’s largest fun fair, taking up Gedempte Zuiderdokken. Lots of
bratwurst, hot dogs and contraptions to enjoy.
ZuiDerZinnen
www.zuiderzinnen.org
Literary festival in ‘t Zuid. Poetry, novels, readings, stand-up comedy and
live shows make the area swing. With every edition, the event becomes
more vibrant, with ever more clubs, bars and people chipping in.
BOrGerriO
www.eha.be
At the end of June, Turnhoutsebaan becomes an international market with
food, drinks, music and art stalls.
end-of-year fireworkS
Half the city gathers on the quays of the river on New Year’s Eve to
watch the fireworks provided by the city council.
BOLLeKeSFeeST
& AnTWerPen PrOeFT
Bollekes Party and Antwerp Tastes take place at the end of August, from
Friday to Sunday. Culinary festival on Gedempte Zuiderdokken.
jaZZ middelHeim
www.jazzmiddelheim.be
Since its first edition 30 years ago, Wynton Marsalis, Toots Tielemans,
Bill Laswell and other jazz legends took to the stage here. The young
tend to ignore this event, despite the efforts of the organizers.
De BOeKenBeurS
www.boekenbeurs.be
The annual Book Fair has been organised at Antwerp Expo for ages.
Thousands of writers, wannabe-writers and readers meet at this venue. The
staggering amount of books, bookshops and publishers that gather in Expo’s
halls, make this one of the most important cultural events in Flanders.
There’s a wide selection of international literature too and a free visit to
several Antwerp museums is included in your entrance ticket.
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antwerp 10 mileS
www.antwerp10miles.be
Thousands of sports lovers train about half a month to do the
10 miles on a day in April. Thousands of participants and many
more supporters make for a great sports afternoon. There’s a real
marathon for the tenacious and a 5 mile Antwerp Short Run for the
less tenacious.
ruBenSMArKT
Yearly fair on the Antwerpians’ Mother’s Day, 15th of August, on and around
Grote Markt. Merchants in 17th century outfits palm off their - often dusty
- wares, while antiques dealers try to make money on nearby Handschoenmarkt.
kerStmarkt
Another classic of the end of the year is Kerstmarkt (Christmas
Fair) on and around Grote Markt. Atmospheric, warm and cozy
with Christmas carols and gin. If you’ve had enough of the smell
of bratwurst and sweets, you can risk your neck on the ice-skating
rink.
BOLLeKeSLOOP
www.dekoninck.be
www.antwerpathletics.be
If you missed the 10 miles or you simply thought it was too crowded, you can
participate in the Bollekesloop, named after Antwerp’s world famous beer.
You can choose between 5 km and 10 km and there’s a refreshing Bolleke
waiting for you at the finish.
CroSSing Border
www.crossingborder.be
The Crossing Border festival takes place in Antwerp every year,
around the end of November. At that time, the Arenberg and Bourla
theatres are the places to be for an extensive range of transboundary
music and literature. A unique opportunity for music lovers to catch
some international talent in action.
FeLix POeTrY FeSTiVAL
www.antwerpenboekenstad.be/felix
A festival for all romantic souls. Poetry readings that try to enchant every
heart. This two-day festival aims to bring us the best of the world of poetry
and so far, they have always succeeded. Every year, national and international
elite gather at the impressive FelixPakhuis. No wonder we can only sing its
praises.

faSHion department graduation SHow
www.antwerp-fashion.be
At the end of June, all eyes are on the final collections of the promising
master students at Antwerp’s fashion academy. The show has
gained international fame and checking it out is definitely worth a
try. You might even spot some creations of the new Dries van Noten
or Ann Demeulemeester.
MuSeuMnACHT
www.museumnacht.be
You can visit almost all of Antwerp’s museums every year, between 7 pm
and 1 am on museum night. The atmosphere is relaxed and a lot livelier than
usual. You get a unique opportunity to experience art in an entirely new way.
You can go on a nice summer night stroll to various museums and even fit in a
pub crawl along the way. This night lets you combine the best of both worlds
perfectly.
/91

09.
Editors’
favoURites
- whErE do you stArt in A guidE pAckEd with hotpots? gEt inspirEd by thE
pErsonAl fAvouritEs of thE Editors who crossEd thE city this yEAr to
find thE nEwEst, hottEst AddrEssEs.

Leen
. kolonel koffie
1 This little coffee house is rather new, but slightly cosier and more
personal than all other coffee shops that are currently very in and
suddenly all sprouting like mushrooms.
Kolonel Koffie’s greatest trump is its superior quality coffee offered
at democratic prices. Service is also great!
2 . PHiL’S COFFee
Phil’s Coffee is brilliant at customer friendliness. It’s no sweat at all for
shop owner Phil to personally run and pick the mint a few streets away from
the coffee shop when you order fresh mint tea and there’s still a smile on his
face when he serves it to you. That deserves the thumbs up!
. ZuiderperSHuiS
3 If you’re seriously into artistically tinted culture, the Zuiderpershuis
is the place to be. The excellent exhibitions and regular poetry
slams are strongly recommended. There is often an international,
loose atmosphere. That is why De Foyer offers dishes from all over
the world. It is also a cosy place to chat about concerts or sit on the
green patio in the summer to relive the great vibes.
Roel
1 . LA CHASCOnA
Not only the name but also the small terrace in front of this little coffee
house evoke a southern atmosphere. Nothing could be further from the truth!
You enter a cosy mix of sixties and seventies style furniture, alternated with an
old school bench here and there. There is coffee to suit all tastes, whatever
the strength! To top the homely atmosphere off, all cakes and tarts are
homemade.
. promenade langS de SCHelde
2 Feel like taking a breath of fresh air or working on your tan while
the sun shines? The promenade along the Scheldt is the ideal place
to do so! Watch the sun disappearing behind the left bank, feel the
wind in your hair and stay out of the city for once. By going through
the subway at the end of the promenade can go to the green side opposite,
where you will have a fantastic view of Antwerp.
3 . BeeLDenTuin
SinT-PAuLuSKerK
There is a unique sculpture garden hidden behind the thick gate of SaintPaul’s
Church. This bizarre little part of Antwerp is something that you have never
seen before. You can imagine being in the garden of a bewitched sculptor
who is enormously fascinated by the Stations of the Cross. The church and cute
Middle-Age little houses surrounding you transport you back to the past.
For the art lovers among us, there are pieces by Caravaggio and Rubens to
be admired inside the church.
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94/
Anaïs
. Hole of tHe fox
1 This is my top of the pops because of its self-willed selection
and promotion of young, new talent. It exudes great atmosphere
and the gallery owner is always open to having a chat and answering
your questions.
2 . DeSiGnCenTer
De WinKeLHAAK
This is just a place where you can find very many pleasant things. You can buy
printed T-shirts or affordable design. They always come up with innovative
ideas and also have a number of pleasant markets
and events every year.
. faSHion department
3 graduation SHow
You must see this show at least once in your life. The
amount of talent in this city is unreal. Creations are
innovative time and time again: they vary from the
extravagant to playful plainness. The Antwerp fashion
academy is listed among the international top ten and
you will immediately understand why when you see
this show.
Anouk
1 . KiDS rHYTHM
& BLueS KAFFee
This pub has everything that I find essential for a pub: tasty beer, a
pleasant atmosphere and, above all, wonderful music. You can enjoy
cosy candlelight or a super-tasty toasted sandwich while you let the
blues vibes grab you. Are you a local? Then you can most certainly
ask for a plaid in winter so that you can stay on the terrace to enjoy
your drink. There are high-quality performances free of charge on
Wednesday and Sunday evenings. Highly recommendable!
. wok a way
2 This the perfect place for the two of you or a few friends to have
an affordable meal. You can enjoy wonderfully tasty wok dishes with
rice or noodles or you can compile your own wok dish. Wok A Way has
been renovated recently with the environment as its promotional
element. It is a cosy place to have a meal, you are surrounded by green
walls and animals made out of wood. Yet, they have succeeded in
maintaining the atmosphere and you can fill your tummy at a great
speed for only 10 to 15 euro. A quick bite but still pleasantly cosy!
3 . SCHeLDeKAAien
You don’t really feel like eating inside when the sun has such a smile on
its face, do you? Or are you just looking for a place to make some music or have a
chat with friends? Then the Scheldt Quays are exactly what you are looking
for! I regularly come here to eat chips or have a pizza with friends, because
what’s better than enjoying a beautiful sunset on the Scheldt? You do have
to fight for a place on a warm summer’s day, it’s true, but then again, it’s
worth it. This is different from sitting in a park, but by no means worse!

Charlotte
. Having a Summer piC-niCk
1 along tHe SCHeldt
Homemade tapas and cakes, wine and sunsets to die for. You will
fall in love instantly with Antwerp (and your date?).
2 . VreeMDeLinGenMArKT
(exOTiC MArKeT)
On SATurDAYS
First and foremost for the stall selling traditionally made goat cheese
products. Don’t eat anything before you go to the market: at Morocco
Nuts and nearly all fruit stalls you’ll be offered almost everything to taste
free of charge. Healthy fruit salad and a piece of fresh Moroccan bread for
breakfast? Check!
3 . openluCHttHeater
(open-air tHeatre) deurne
There’s nothing greater than being given the bonus of a concert in
a mini-stadium in the wood. A perfect starter or end to the festival
season, but what is really special is the atmosphere in the theatre,
which you can only visit for a few months a year.

96/

the yellow
pages
-01 huis vAn dE studEnt (housE of thE studEnt) dEtAils
02 AntwErps studEntEnovErlEg (AntwErp studEnt council)
03 gEtting to AntwErp
04 gEtting Around
05 monEy mAttErs
06 A plAcE to livE And lovE. And study
07 no work, no pAy, no plAy
08 hEAlth And insurAncE
09 kEEp in touch
10 nEws And ActivitiEs for studEnts
11 A computEr
12 studEnts’ fAcilitiEs And sociAl sErvicEs
13 list of intErnAtionAl officEs
14 importAnt tElEphonE numbErs
15 list of EmbAssiEs And consulAtEs
16 bAnk holidAys
/97

98/
01
huis vAn dE studEnt (housE of thE
studEnt) dEtAils / plan | D4
Sint-Jacobsmarkt 16
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 292 31 70
E info@antwerpenstudentenstad.be
www.antwerpenstudentenstad.be
DWELLERS
Co-ordinator
Veerle Desimpelaere
Employees
Annelies Kolacny, Tom Ollivier, Debbie Degeeter,
Malu Caeyers.
Since Huis van de Student opened its doors in
2008, students have directed their questions
about the city or student policy to our desk at
Sint-Jacobsmarkt 16.
The Huis van de Student is the flagship store
of Antwerpen Studentenstad (agency), the
place where the employees of Antwerpen
Studentenstad are based and the seat of the
Antwerp Student Council. Our current address
at Sint-Jacobsmarkt is temporary. The building
of the definitive Huis van de Student is an
ongoing renovation and development project
in the heart of the student district. It will be
open to the students in 2014.
The Huis van de Student is the place to be for
all your questions regarding anything that has
even remotely to do with living as a student in
Antwerp. Pop in and we’ll help you get started.
Foreign students can also apply to the International
Offices and Students’ Facilities Services of their
host institutions for help and information. See
chapter 12 of this section for a list of Student
Facilities and Social Services and chapter 13 of
this section for a list of International Offices.
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 5 pm
- Friday from 10 am to 3 pm
- Check the website for opening hours during
school holidays
02
AntwErps studEntEnovErlEg
(AntwErp studEnt council)
Since 2003 the Antwerp students can consult
the city council. They organize themselves in
the Antwerps Studentenoverleg (Antwerp Student
Council) or ASO and they regularly advice
the city council. The Student Council consists
of 18 representatives from the various higher
education institutions in Antwerp. It’s also a
part of Antwerpen Studentenstad. This allows
both the city government and the students to
combine forces and build a lively college town.
Want to know more? Do you have suggestions
or remarks?
E info@antwerpsstudentenoverleg.be
www.antwerpsstudentenoverleg.be

03
gEtting to AntwErp
There are quite a few options available
to get to Belgium and Antwerp.
PLANE
The most likely place to end up if you’re
flying into Belgium is Brussels International
Airport at Zaventem. The airport is located
some 45 kilometres south of Antwerp. There
are flights from all major European cities as
well as from the most important overseas
metropoles. Various airlines fly into Brussels
airport. If you fly Ryanair, you’ll arrive at Charleroi
airport, dubbed ‘Brussels South’, some 90
kilometres away from Antwerp.
www.brusselsairport.be
www.charleroi-airport.com
From Brussels Airport, the SN Brussels Airlines
Express Bus arguably is the most convenient
way to get to Antwerp. The bus station is
located at the ground floor of the airport terminal.
Buses run every hour from 5 am to 12 pm
(Brussels airport to Antwerp) and from 4 am to
11 pm (Antwerp to Brussels airport). The bus
reaches the centre of Antwerp (De Keyserlei -
close to the Central Station) in approximately 45
minutes. A single ticket costs 10 euro one way.
www.airportexpress.be
The Belgian Railways are another option.
There is an underground station near the airport
terminal. The train to Antwerp takes about one
hour: you have to change at ‘Brussel-Noord’ station.
A single ticket costs 8 euro one way. Train
timetables are available on www.b-rail.
be/main/E/. From Charleroi Airport you can
get a ‘bulk’ ticket at the Ryanair desk. It sets
you back 11 euro, but includes a bus ride to
Charleroi-Sud train station and a train trip to
any station in Belgium. There’s a direct link to
Antwerp, which takes about 1,5 hour.
BuS
If you are looking for a cheap way to come to
Antwerp from a place within Europe, you could
travel with Eurolines. The Eurolines bus goes to
the centre of the city - Van Stralenstraat 8,
2060 Antwerp.
www.eurolines.be
TRAiN
Antwerp is easy to reach by train. International
railway lines link Brussels and Antwerp to
several other major European cities. The European
high-speed train project includes the Tha-
lys, the Eurostar and the Eurotunnel. There are
direct rail links with different cities in France,
the Netherlands and Germany. Antwerp can be
reached from the UK by Eurostar via Brussels, or
by taking the ferry-rail link via Ostend
(Ramsgate/Ostend) or Zeebrugge (Hull/Zeebrugge).
Antwerp has two main stations:
Central Station and Berchem station.
www.b-rail.be
CAR
All destinations are within easy reach by car.
The city of Antwerp lies at the crossroads of the
E17, E19, E34 and E313 motorways. Be warned
though, negotiating the city centre by car isn’t
always easy, especially during rush hour. The
ringroad around Antwerp is always busy, but
during rush hour it gets congested easily. It can
sometimes be difficult to park your car in town.
And it’ll nearly always cost you money. Nearly
always, since free parking is available on the
covered riverside quay near Zuiderterras and
on Gedempte Zuiderdokken, a square between
Vlaamsekaai and Waalsekaai in ‘t Zuid area.
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04
gEtting Around
BiKE
One-way streets, overpriced or nonexisting
car parks, crowded buses and nights when
the tram just refuses to show up. Cycling (or
walking) is by far the most popular method of
transport among students. Furthermore, your
two-wheeled friend is still the best option to
get from A to B. Antwerp is relatively bikerfriendly.
There aren’t too many cycle paths,
but drivers are used to trails of bikes cruising
about. Be aware of trams, which always have
right of way, and their slippery tracks. If you
decide to cycle in Antwerp, don’t spend your
money on anything but the most expensive
U-shaped lock you can find, and always,
always, lock up.
FiETSHAVEN
Fietshaven (‘bike harbour’) pitched its tents under
Central Station. For 60 euro, they provide you
with a seven-gear lemon bike that you can keep
for the academic year. Reserve a bike by telephone
or via email and pick it up at the agreed time.
Don’t forget your ID-card, student’s ticket, the
rental fee and an extra 75 euro for the deposit.
The deposit will be returned if you bring back
the bike in good shape.
T +32 (0)3 203 06 73
(Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 9.30 am-4 pm)
E info@fietshaven.be
www.fietshaven.be
VELo
Metropolises such as Barcelona, Milan, Stockholm,
Zaragoza and Oslo already have it and since
June 2011 Antwerp is part of the club as well.
Bike stations scattered between the Singel and
the Scheldt where you can pick up and drop off
bicycles whenever you like.
The fiery red bicycles have three speeds, anti-skid
pedals and thick tires, so it’s easier to avoid the
tram tracks. In order to ride Velo you have to
register: you can do this via the website, the
phone or the customer service. Step two:
choose your formula. An annual pass costs
35 euro only and it provides direct access to
the bikes. A day and week pass, respectively 3
and 7 euro, require an access code which you
receive, after registering, via a text message.
The Velos are particularly meant for short rides:
the first half hour is included in the price, the next
30 minutes cost 0,5 euro, the following half
hour costs 1 euro and every extra hour after
that is 5 euro. The maximum time limit is four
hours.
For all information regarding the stations and
an overview, consult www.velo-antwerpen.be
or the customer service. It is located in Central
Station’s shopping arcade.
The disadvantage is that you need a credit card
for day and week passes. An annual pass can
be purchased at the customer service with a
regular bank card.
T +32 (0)3 206 50 30
E info@velo-antwerpen.be
www.velo-antwerpen.be
See chapter 3 ‘Cycling in the city’ of the ‘Living
as a student in the city’-section for more
information, bike storage and avoiding bicycle
theft.
BuS AND TRAM
Within the province and the city of Antwerp, transport
is organised by the public transport company
‘De Lijn’. Public transport gets you just about

everywhere in (‘stad’: city) and around (‘streek’:
region) Antwerp. Tram and premetro (a tram that
does part of its journey underground) stops are
scattered throughout town, while most buses take
you in and out of town and the suburbs. Buses usually
arrive at and depart from Rooseveltplaats, Antwerp’s
main bus hub. Buses and trams to various
parts of the city leave from Astridplein in front of
Central Station, which is close to Rooseveltplaats.
There’s a night service on Fridays and Saturdays.
De Lijn promotes buying tickets in advance. A ticket
for one trip bought in advance at a bookstore or
De Lijn-shop sets you back 1,20 euro. You can buy a
ticket from the driver, but it’ll cost you 2 euro and
bus drivers insist on correct change. A Dagpas (day
ticket) costs 5 euro (6 on the bus). A Lijnkaart worth
ten journeys is also available and costs 9 euro
(which you’ll have to buy in advance at a bookstore
or De Lijn-shop). A ticket takes you through the
whole district of Antwerp. This means that you can
travel in the city of Antwerp and its surrounding
suburbs (Berchem, Berendrecht, Borgerhout,
Deurne, Ekeren, Hoboken, Lillo, Merksem, Wilrijk
and Zandvliet). Whenever you travel by tram or bus
you have to validate your ticket by inserting
it into the yellow boxes that can be found on
buses and trams. After inserting the ticket into this
device, you have to press button 1 for one person
and for one trip. Once you have done this, your
ticket will be valid for 60 minutes. Press one of the
blue buttons to ring the bell when you want to get
off the bus/tram. If you aren’t handicapped or not
pushing a pram, you have to get on via the front
door of the bus.
De Lijn-shop Rooseveltplaats:
T +32 (0)3 232 75 23
www.delijn.be (Dutch only)
TAxi
Fares for taxi rides are set by the city council. It’s
2,75 euro for the initial charge, 1,70 euro for each
additional kilometre. There’s a 2,20 euro night
surcharge between 10 pm and 6 am. Fixed taxi
stops can be found at Groenplaats, Central Station,
Rooseveltplaats, etc. Or you can always hail a taxi
on the street by raising your hand, New York style.
Another option is booking a taxi by telephone.
Algemene Antwerpse Taxicentrale
T +32 (0)3 216 16 16
Antwerp-Tax NV
T +32 (0)3 238 38 38
DTM Taxi
T +32 (0)3 366 66 66
Star Taxi
T +32 (0)3 257 57 57
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05
monEy mAttErs
People in Antwerp, pay in euro, as does the rest of
the EU. Anyone under the age of 25 can open and
close a bank account free of charge. At the same
time it is advisable to apply for a bank card which
gives you access to the cash machines/ATMs
(Automatic Teller Machines). Most bank cards also
have a Proton chip that allows you to use the card
as an ‘electronic purse’, which means that you can
load a certain amount of ‘cash’ onto your bank
card at cash machines. The device that allows to
pay by Proton can be found in many shops at the
checkout. Phone banking services mean that bank
cards also enable you to pay for transactions by
phone. Conditions and services may differ from
bank to bank, so it may be worthwhile to check
out a few.
Living in Antwerp will cost you about 600 euro per
month. The following list should give you an idea:
- Rent 285 euro
- Meals 190 euro
- Transport/Leisure 120 euro
- Course materials 25 euro
The following list will give you an idea of other costs:
- Small loaf of bread 1.80 euro
- Coffee (250g) 2.30 euro
- 1 kg sugar 1.12 euro
- 1 kg rice 0.62 euro to 3.49 euro
- 1 litre milk 0.80 euro
- 1 kg potatoes 0.80 euro
- 1 kg apples 2 euro
- 3 kg oranges 2.50 euro
- 1 kg bananas 2.50 euro
- Small chicken 4.28 euro
- Breakfast cereals 1.59 euro to 5.24 euro
- Jam 1.70 euro
- Portion of fries 1.50 euro
- Sandwich 2.50 euro
- A glass of coca cola in a café 1.80 euro
- A glass of beer in a café 1.80 euro
- A cup of coffee/tea in a café 2 euro
- Toilet paper (4 rolls) 1.50 euro
- Shower gel 2 euro
- Tooth paste 2 euro
- Washing powder 4 euro
- Cigarettes (19) 4,80 euro
These are average prices of brand name products,
but the supermarket chains (Carrefour, GB, Delhaize,
Colruyt, Aldi and Lidl) have their own-brand
goods which cost less, particularly with regard
to basic food such as bread, milk, water, rice, etc.
The cheapest supermarkets are Aldi, Lidl and Col-
ruyt. However, at Aldi or Lidl you will not find any
official bags for your rubbish (garbage). More
information about getting rid of household waste
(rubbish/garbage) is given in the section entitled
‘Garbage disposal’. Dairy products, especially
cheese, can be bought cheaply at local markets.
The same goes for fruit and vegetables. Belgians
are smart shoppers, so look for the stalls with the
longest queues! Small grocery stores are more
expensive. They are usually open between 9 am
and 6 pm, sometimes even later, and are closed on
Sundays (although there are exceptions). Look for
‘wekelijkse rustdag’ or closing day. It is best to
check opening hours as these may vary from town
to town. You can find night shops all over town.
These are rather expensive. Second hand goods
(furniture, clothes,…) can be bought at special
markets or in special shops. Note: ‘reclame’,
‘aanbieding’, ‘voordeel’ indicate bargain. Whilst
‘opruiming’, ‘solden’, ‘uitverkoop’ indicate sales (in
January and July).

Apart from a weekly market day in almost every
town and metropolitan area, where fresh vegetables,
meat and fish can be bought at reasonable
prices, there are other more specialised markets
which are certainly worth a visit, including antique
markets, flower markets, vegetable markets, meat
markets, animal markets, and art markets. Check
the ‘Shopping for food & essentials’-section for
more information.
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06
A plAcE to livE And lovE.
And study
YouTH HoSTELS
Some institutions offer the possibility for
students to apply in advance with their host
institution’s International Office for housing. In
other cases however, students prefer to arrive
in advance or during the summer months to
find a room of their own choice. They can find
relatively cheap accommodation in a youth
hostel. In the meantime you should contact
your ‘student buddy’, ‘godmother’ or ‘godfather’,
or the international co-ordinator to start
looking for accommodation. Youth hostels are
also an option when friends visit and need
somewhere to stay for a short while at little
cost. If you are a youth hostel association
member you can rent a room with breakfast at
cheaper rates.
Membership – valid for 12 months - costs
9 euro for those under 26 years of age,
and 15 euro for those who are older.
Hostelling international – Hostel Pulcinella
Bogaardeplein 1
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 234 03 14
E antwerpen@vjh.be
www.jeugdherbergen.be
Boomerang Youth Hostel
Lange Leemstraat 95
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 238 47 82
E boomeranghostel@hotmail.com
www.boomeranghostel.be
Scoutel
Stoomstraat 3-7
2018 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 226 46 06
E scoutel@hopper.be
www.hopper.be/en/jeugdverblijf/scoutel
Alias Youthhostel Antwerp
Provinciestraat 256
2018 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 230 05 22
E info@youthhotel.be
www.wix.com/aliasyouthhostel/home
Antwerp Backpackers Hostel
Kattenberg 110
2140 Borgerhout
T +32 (0)473 57 01 66
E abhostel@hotmail.com
abhostel.com
STuDENT RooM PRACTiCALiTiES
There are several areas in Antwerp where
students live. The price of a room, flat or bedsit
varies according to the neighbourhood and the
type of accommodation. A room has a shared
bathroom and kitchen, while a flat or apartment
usually has their own separate bathroom
and kitchen, whereas a bedsit is smaller than
a flat or apartment, though it too has its own
bathroom and kitchen/kitchenette. University
of Antwerp has its own halls of residence.
Rooms on campus are generally cheaper than
privately-owned student rooms. Host institutions
help students find rooms, but you’ll need
to apply well in advance. The international
co-ordinator of the host institution can inform
you on the necessary formalities.
If you want to look for a student room yourself,
you should search for orange ‘te huur’ (for
rent) signs in house windows, or signs saying
‘studentenkamers’ (student rooms). Telephone
numbers of landlords are also mentioned.

www.studentkotweb.be
This is a brand new website of Antwerpen
Studentenstad, the city of Antwerp and the
Antwerp institutions of higher education on
which you can find everything about student
housing in the city as well as a database with
rooms, bedsits and/or flats.
All rooms in this database meet the safety
regulations or will be checked in the near
future, and the landlords should be reliable.
Accommodation in the city centre tends
to be expensive, though prices in Antwerp
are nowhere as steep as in Brussels or Louvain.
Prices drop outside the ‘Leien’, Antwerp’s main
boulevards, so don’t hesitate to check out
some rooms farther away from campus. On top
of that public transport runs smoothly and
regularly, and a bicycle can be rented at
(student) bottom prices.
STANDARDiSED RENTAL FoRMS
Host institutions have standardised rental
forms (Kotweb-contract) for student accommodation.
These contracts fully protect you as
a student tenant and are slightly in your favour
(English translation and explanation are available).
Some landlords may offer you their own
contract, but be smart and never sign a document
that you don’t fully understand!
Ask an English translation!
You’ll need to take out fire insurance which
costs about 25 euro to 37 euro. You can get a
copy of a model agreement at your host
institution.
For advice on housing and insurance, contact
the Social Services Offices of your host institution
(see the list in the Yellow Pages of this
guide).
TENANTS’ uNioN
An organisation that defends the interests
of tenants. You can get help and specialised
advice on all kinds of tenants’ issues. Membership
costs 15 euro.
Huurdersbond Antwerpen
Langstraat 102
2140 Borgerhout
T +32 (0)3 272 27 42
E antwerpen.huurdersbond@antwerpen.be
www.huurdersbond.be
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REFuSE/GARBAGE CoLLECTioN
Rubbish/garbage is collected once or twice a
week. It should be put on the pavement outside
your place of accommodation in special plastic
bags (for sale in supermarkets and general
stores), but not before 8 pm the day before it is
due to be collected. You need special green
bags for vegetable, fruit and garden waste (GFT
Groenten/Fruit/Tuinafval). A 50 litre green bag
costs 0.40 euro. A 15 litre bag costs 0.20 euro.
Other waste material, such as cans and plastic
bottles, goes into special blue bags which cost
0.25 euro each (60 litres). Paper should be put
in a box or bound together. Collection days
vary according to the neighbourhood. Nonrefundable
glass bottles and jars (no deposit:
‘geen statiegeld’) can be disposed of in green/
white containers, the Belgian version of bottle
banks, on street corners and squares.
Other waste material, such as chemicals, paint,
and medicine should be kept separately and
disposed of at the local rubbish dump.
The way you have to sort your waste can vary
in the different communities. It is best to check
because fines can be high!
For more information about garbage collection
visit www.studentkotweb.be and also have
a peek at the ‘Living as a student in the city’section.
07
no work, no pAy, no plAy
Studying is expensive and so is a busy social
life. As money doesn’t grow on trees and
begging is illegal, you may want to consider a
student job.
As of 1 January 2012, student work legislation
in Belgium was changed: students are now allowed
to work for 50 days without any increase
to their social contributions. All information on
this subject and more can be found at
www.studentatwork.be
www.studentjobweb.be
(Dutch and English)
Before you can use this website, you’ll need
to get a username and password from the
Students’ Facilities Services (see chapter 12 for
a list). Click on ‘on line’ and enter the jobs database.
The website further provides you with
useful information such as model contracts,
useful addresses and much more.
www.studentenjobs.be
(in Dutch or French only)

This is the jobsite of Studiant, a students’
association. The website distinguishes between
student jobs, weekend jobs and temporary
jobs. There’s also a section for internships and
unpaid voluntary work. Some clubs and theatres
(Petrol and Arenbergschouwburg for example)
post job alerts for jobs such as mounting
posters and handing out flyers. Payment
usually consists of free tickets and/or some
chips for drinks.
Most student jobs require a sound knowledge
of Dutch. However a special section mentions
jobs not requiring knowledge of the Dutch language.
Ask for more information at the Social
Service of your host institution, mentioning
that you are an exchange student. Conditions
may vary. For students from outside the EU
and the new member states it might be more
difficult to get a job since they need a work
permit card.
The law specifies minimum wage rates for
working students, which vary according to age:
- 19-year-olds: 7,87 euro per hour
- 20-year-olds: 8,41 euro per hour
- 21-year-olds: 8,94 euro per hour
Overtime is not always paid extra. Employers
often compensate overtime with hours or
days off. In case you have more questions, dial
+32 (0)3 213 78 10 and you will receive a free
brochure (in Dutch or French).
A few tips:
- Several temp agencies allow you to register
as a job-seeking student.
- You can also present yourself as a jobseeker
at a number of places, such as clothing stores,
department stores and restaurants.
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08
hEAlth And insurAncE
DoCToRS AND STuDENT CouNSELLoRS
The following people can direct you to your
personal student counsellor or make an appointment
with a doctor for you:
uNiVERSiTEiT ANTWERPEN
(uNiVERSiTY oF ANTWERP)
Campus Groenenborger en Middelheim
Jo Suijkerbuijk
Building T, room 205
T +32 (0)3 265 37 08
E jo.suijkerbuijk@ua.ac.be
Stadscampus
Building E (Agora), room S.E. 115
Corner of Grote Kauwenberg 2 – Vekestraat
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 265 48 72
Campus Drie Eiken
Building G, room G.002 or G.004
Universiteitsplein 1
2610 Wilrijk
T +32 (0)3 265 20 81/82
KAREL DE GRoTE-HoGESCHooL
(KAREL DE GRoTE uNiVERSiTY CoLLEGE)
Student councellor at your campus or KdG
Stuvo (see chapter 12 of this section)
ARTESiS HoGESCHooL ANTWERPEN
(ARTESiS uNiVERSiTY CoLLEGE ANTWERP)
Annemie Hermans
T +32 (0)3 205 90 90
E annemie.hermans@artesis.be
PLANTijN HoGESCHooL
Els Brusten
T +32 (0)3 205 26 10
E els.brusten@sovoplantijn.be
LESSiuS ANTWERPEN
Annelore Rogiers
T +32 (0)3 241 08 06
E annelore.rogiers@lessius.eu
A list of all general practitioners can also be
found in the Golden Pages (www.goldenpages.
be) under the section ‘Doctors’. You are free
to consult the doctor of your choice. During
the weekend only a limited number of GP’s are
on duty.

They will be listed on the answering machine
of your GP and in newspapers and in free local
papers. Dial 0900 10 512 to find out which GP
is on duty. You can always consult the International
Office (see chapter 13 of the Yellow
Pages in this guide for a list) if you are unsure
what to do. In the case of an emergency,
dial 100 or 112 for an ambulance.
STRESS RELiEF
The psychologist or consultant of your institution
is the first person to talk to. If necessary
he or she refers you to a third party. You’re
entitled to five consultations for 5 euro per
consultation. Your counsellor can introduce
you to group training for fear of failure, assertive
training and relaxation techniques. See the
Students’ Facilities Service (see chapter 12 in
this section) for more information.
DENTiSTS
A list of dentists can be found in the ‘Dentists’
section of the Golden Pages
(www.goldenpages.be). Dental care in Belgium
is quite expensive, as only a small percentage
of the cost is refunded by the insurance for
some treatments - and in some cases there is
no refund at all. For urgent dental problems
during the weekend or on public holidays you
can call 0903 99 691 to find out which dentist
is on duty.
GENERAL HoSPiTALS
A list of all hospitals can be found in the Golden
Pages (www.goldenpages.be) under the ‘Hospitals’
section. In each town area there is at least
one hospital with a 24 hour emergency unit.
For other specific needs, such as psychological
help, legal problems, abortion, and advice
about drugs and AIDS, specific help is available.
You can turn to the Social Service or the International
Office at your host institution.
You find the list of hospitals below:
Algemeen Ziekenhuis Middelheim
Lindendreef 1
2020 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 280 31 11
www.zna.be
universitair Ziekenhuis Antwerpen
Wilrijkstraat 10
2650 Edegem
T +32 (0)3 821 30 00
www.uza.be
jan Palfijn
L. Bremstraat 70
2170 Merksem
T +32 (0)3 640 21 11
www.zna.be
Sint-Vincentius
Sint-Vincentiusstraat 20
2018 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 285 20 00
www.st-vincentius.be
Eeuwfeestkliniek Monica
Harmoniestraat 68
2018 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 240 20 20
www.monica.be
Stuivenberg
Lange Beeldekensstraat 267
2060 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 217 71 11
www.zna.be
PHARMACiES
In Belgium medication and certain health
products are only for sale in pharmacies. A list
of all pharmacies can be found in a separate
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110/
selection of the Golden Pages
(www.goldenpages.be) under the section
‘Pharmacists’. Pharmacies are usually closed
on Saturdays and Sundays. However, a limited
number of pharmacists are on duty during the
weekends and at night for urgent medication,
although an extra fee will be charged. A
weekly list of pharmacists that are on night and
weekend duty is posted at every (closed) pharmacist.
Addresses of pharmacists on duty can
also be found in newspapers and free local
newspapers or you can dial 0900 10 500. If you
buy medication, ask for generic brand products
(‘generische geneesmiddelen’ in Dutch).
Those are products whose patent has expired
and they’re much cheaper than trade brand
products.
EMERGENCY NuMBERS
For medical emergencies and fire services dial
100. For urgent police matters dial 101. The
European emergency number, 112, can be
reached from any phone (fax or mobile, even
without a SIM card). If you are feeling down or
depressed and want to talk about your
problems, anonymous help is available 24
hrs 7 days a week at 106 (Tele onthaal). The
telephone number 102 is the child and youth
phone which you can contact anonymously.
iNSuRANCE
Accidents & third party liability
In most cases student registration at the host
institution will include accident and third party
liability insurance during educational and
recreational activities in all buildings of the
institution. Some institutions also insure transfers
to and from the institute and excursions
approved by the institution. Please inquire
with the international co-ordinator if this is the
case at your host institution, since this does
not apply to all institutions.
Medical care & insurance
As medical treatment can be extremely expensive
it is essential that foreign students have
health insurance. They should inquire before
leaving home whether their home insurance
covers all medical costs for the entire period of
stay in Belgium.
Nationals of the EEA or from Switzerland are
insured during their stay in Belgium through
the medical insurance company in their home
country. They should bring along a European
Health Insurance Card or a provisional replace-
ment certificate, which can be obtained from
the home insurance company. The European
Health Insurance Card (replacing the forms
E128 or E111) facilitates access to health care
during their study stay abroad. No supplementary
fee is to be paid. It guarantees immediate
reimbursement of medical bills and allows to
obtain a reduction at the pharmacy.
Students who have no valid health insurance
coverage for Belgium can take out health insurance
with a local health insurance federation
in Antwerp. Another option is to arrange insurance
through a private agency, either in your
home country or upon arrival in Belgium.
Some insurers provide broader, complementary
insurance for hospital or other medical
expenses, repatriation, unexpected illness or
accidents which occur while you are abroad.
Through the university, a very extensive
insurance is offered with the Student Insurance
Program (SIP) at the price of 1.28 euro a day.
More information can be found at:
www.studenttravelinformation.be
/about-d.asp

Refunding of medical costs
If you go to a doctor or receive other medical
treatment during your period of study in Antwerp,
you will have to pay all costs in advance.
You will receive a medical receipt or proof of
payment, which you can take to a local health
insurance federation (‘ziekenfonds’ or ‘mutualiteit’)
for refund or submission to your health
insurance provider very soon after you return
home. More information on health insurance
within Europe can be found at:
http://ec.europa.eu/health-eu/index_
en.htm.
09
kEEp in touch
CALLiNG BELGiuM FRoM ABRoAD
If you want to call Belgium from abroad,
follow these instructions:
> dial exit code
(00, but 011 in the US and Canada)
> dial the international prefix
(for Belgium = 32)
> the area codes which are used for making
local calls (omitting 0):
for Antwerp and Lier: (0)3
for Turnhout (0)14
for Mechelen (0)15
> the telephone number
An example: if you want to call the tourist
information office of the city of Antwerp
from abroad, dial 0032 3 232 01 03.
CALLiNG ABRoAD FRoM BELGiuM
If you want to dial a phone number abroad
from Belgium dial:
> 00 (international prefix)
> country code
> area code (omitting 0)
> telephone number
You can make international calls to Belgium’s
neighbouring countries (France, The Netherlands,
Luxemburg and Germany), Spain, Italy,
North America and Canada at the interzonal
rate (0.09 euro /min off-peak, 0.18 euro/min on
peak hours). Calling Portugal, Greece, Switzerland,
Austria, Sweden, Finland and Norway is
a bit more expensive (0.20 euro/min off-peak,
0.25 euro/min on peak hours).
DiALiNG iN BELGiuM
If you want to dial a phone number in
Belgium dial:
> area code
> telephone number
Another option is calling via the internet.
Certain companies, such as Skype offer free
internet calls on certain conditions, as well as
calls to mobile phones and land lines via the
internet.
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10
nEws And ActivitiEs for studEnts
www.antwerpenstudentenstad.be
The definitive website for students in Antwerp.
It has everything you need to know on living
and studying in the city, nice addresses, free
tickets and an online city guide.
The website also tells you everything about the
offer of Antwerpen Studentenstad to students!
Subscribe to Antwerpen Studentenstad’s newsletter
and keep yourself informed on the best
parties, student reductions, culture, sports
and much more.
Also the website of your host institution
may provide interesting news:
universiteit Antwerpen
(university of Antwerp)
www.ua.ac.be/English
Artesis Hogeschool Antwerpen
(Artesis university College Antwerp)
www.artesis.eu
Karel de Grote-Hogeschool
(Karel de Grote university College)
www.kdg.be/international
Lessius Antwerpen
www.lessius.eu/english/
Plantijn Hogeschool
international.plantijn.be/
Hogere Zeevaartschool
(Antwerp Maritime Academy)
www.hzs.be/html_EN/nieuws_main.php
instituut voor Tropische Geneeskunde
(institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp)
www.itg.be
Antwerp Management School
www.antwerpmanagementschool.be/EN/
ESN, ERASMuS STuDENT NETWoRK
In every institution and/or faculty, student
associations organise cultural, sporting, political,
and other typical student activities. ESN,
the Erasmus Student Network, is also active
in the province. ESN is the official European
organisation that tries to give structure to
all local initiatives around the European
exchange programme called Erasmus. ESN tries
to get you settled, helping you out with whatever
practical problems you may encounter.
In addition, they give you information about
Flemish student life and its traditions. This
is done through various kinds of activities: cultural
excursions, sporting activities, counselling
sessions, and information meetings. Their
main goal is to get students involved as much
as possible with the great mixture of cultures,
traditions and experiences that Erasmus stands
for. Most institutions have their own ESN
representative.
www.esnantwerp.org
RADio & TV
Flanders has a public broadcasting corporation,
the VRT, as well as several commercial stations
such as VTM, VT4, 2BE, JIM, TMF and many
others. Programmes can be found in the newspaper
and weekly TV guides. There are also a
number of local radio and television channels.
Antwerp’s local broadcasting company is called
ATV. Many foreign broadcasters are also available
on cable television. Films and international
programmes on Flemish television are
shown in their original version with subtitles

in Dutch (with the exception of natural history
programmes, which are often dubbed).
LiFE STANCES & ACTiVE PLuRALiSM
Being a multicultural city, Antwerp is a home
to a range of different religions and beliefs. The
Antwerp University Association adheres to active
pluralism. This focuses on the knowledge
and experience of different values and persuasions
and wishes to intensify the discerning
dialogue between members in a respectful
atmosphere. The Pieter Gillis’ centre, housed at
the city campus of the university (Hof van Liere,
Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen) aims to offer
a forum on communication and philosophical
issues and to stimulate philosophical reflection
within the activities of the university and the
university colleges of the association. The
Belgian constitution recognizes and finances
certain religions and life stances, based on
their general social, human and moral significance
in Belgian society. The authorities have
deliberately chosen to maintain an array of
values in order to create a liveable society. At
this moment there are six recognized life
stances in Belgium: Catholicism, Protestantism,
Anglicanism, Judaism, Islam and Orthodox.
The non-confessional organizations have been
constitutionally recognized since 1993 on equal
footing with the recognized religions.
11
A computEr
www.academicshop.be
Students can buy a laptop here that is up to
30% cheaper than in the regular shops.
iCT FACiLiTiES
All institutions provide free use of PCs for
word processing, Internet use and access to
CD-ROMs for the students of that institution.
The students of the University of Antwerp have
access to all ICT facilities on the different UA
campuses.
Some campuses offer exchange students
a free e-mail account during their stay.
Messages and important information about
activities, jobs, information, visits, etc. from
the International Offices and from ESN, the European
Student Network, are sent by means of
the exchange students’ mailing list. Students
who would like to send a message to all
exchange students can use this mailing list as
well by sending their message to the International
Office.
Furthermore, there are lots of cyber cafés
where you can surf the Internet for about 5
euro per hour. You can find their addresses
via www.goldenpages.be. Certain cafés, restaurants,
etc. offer free access to the
internet. Throughout this guide we’ve marked
the spots with a WIFI connection.
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12
studEnts’ fAcilitiEs
And sociAl sErvicEs
For all your questions on study grants, sports,
culture, psycho-social guidance, fear of failure
training, subsidies,…
ARTESiS HoGESCHooL ANTWERPEN
(ARTESiS uNiVERSiTY CoLLEGE ANTWERP)
Sovoha
Mutsaardstraat 29
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 205 90 90
E sovoha@artesis.be
www.artesis.be/sovoha
KAREL DE GRoTE-HoGESCHooL
(KAREL DE GRoTE uNiVERSiTY CoLLEGE)
KdG Stuvo
Gemeentestraat 6
2060 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 202 38 00
E stuvo@kdg.be
www.kdgstuvo.be
PLANTijN HoGESCHooL
Sovo Plantijn
Keizerstraat 5
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 205 26 10
E info@sovoplantijn.be
www.sovoplantijn.be
uNiVERSiTEiT ANTWERPEN
(uNiVERSiTY oF ANTWERP)
STiP uNiVERSiTEiT ANTWERPEN
Campus Drie Eiken
Building G
Universiteitsplein 1
2610 Wilrijk
T +32 (0)3 265 80 82
E stip@ua.ac.be
www.ua.ac.be/SCS
Stadscampus
Building E (Agora)
Corner of Grote Kauwenberg 2 – Vekestraat
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 265 48 72
E stip@ua.ac.be
www.ua.ac.be/SCS
HoGERE ZEEVAARTSCHooL
(ANTWERP MARiTiME ACADEMY)
Sovo HZS
Noordkasteel Oost 6
2030 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 205 64 59
E sovo@hzs.be
www.hzs.be
LESSiuS ANTWERPEN
STiP Lessius Antwerpen
Sint-Andriesstraat 2
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 241 08 06
E stip.antwerpen@lessius.eu
www.lessius.eu/stip
iNSTiTuuT VooR TRoPiSCHE GENEESKuNDE
(iNSTiTuTE oF TRoPiCAL MEDiCiNE ANTWERP)
Studentendienst
Nationalestraat 155
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 247 62 52 / +32 (0)3 247 64 85
E studentendienst@itg.be
www.itg.be

13
list of intErnAtionAl officEs
uNiVERSiTEiT ANTWERPEN
(uNiVERSiTY oF ANTWERP)
Stadscampus
Gratiekapelstraat 10
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 265 49 80
F +32 (0)3 265 41 42
E international@ua.ac.be
www.ua.ac.be/international
HoGERE ZEEVAARTSCHooL
(ANTWERP MARiTiME ACADEMY)
Noordkasteel Oost 6
2030 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 205 64 38
F +32 (0)3 225 06 39
E international@hzs.be
www.hzs.be
ARTESiS HoGESCHooL ANTWERPEN
(ARTESiS uNiVERSiTY CoLLEGE ANTWERP)
Frank Rylant
Keizerstraat 15
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 213 93 26
F +32 (0)3 213 93 41
E frank.rylant@artesis.be
www.artesis.be
KAREL DE GRoTE-HoGESCHooL
(KAREL DE GRoTE uNiVERSiTY CoLLEGE)
Brusselstraat 45
2018 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 613 13 83
E international@kdg.be
www.kdg.be/international
PLANTijN HoGESCHooL
Véronique Blockhuys
Lange Nieuwstraat 101
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 220 57 37
F +32 (0)3 220 55 19
E veronique.blockhuys@plantijn.be
www.kdg.be/international
LESSiuS ANTWERPEN
Wim Coudenys
Jozef De Bomstraat 11
2018 Antwerpen
T + 32 (0) 3 275 98 60
F + 32 (0) 206 04 81
E wim.coudenys@lessius.eu
www.lessius.eu/english
iNSTiTuuT VooR TRoPiSCHE GENEESKuNDE
(iNSTiTuTE oF TRoPiCAL MEDiCiNE ANTWERP)
Nationalestraat 155
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 247 62 52 / +32 (0)3 247 64 85
E studentendienst@itg.be
www.itg.be
ANTWERP MANAGEMENT SCHooL
Bieke Janssens
Sint-Jacobsmarkt 9-13
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 265 40 11
E bieke.janssens@ams.ac.be
www.antwerpmanagementschool.be
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14
importAnt tElEphonE numbErs
100 / 112: urgent medical assistance and
fire brigade
101: police, for urgent cases
0800 123 12: Antwerp police, for nonurgent
cases (e.g. information)
106: ‘Tele-onthaal’, a helpful ear for urgent
psychological needs
070 245 245: Anti-poison centre
1207: to find telephone numbers in Belgium
(Dutch)
1307: to find telephone numbers in
Belgium (French)
1204: to find telephone numbers in
foreign countries
03 217 75 95: special centre for the treatment
of burns
02 649 95 55: suicide prevention
02 648 40 14: Help Line (English speaking)
24 hours, crisis information and
support centre for a wide range of problems
070 344 344: Cardstop in case of loss of
credit cards Eurocard/Master Card, Visa
and Bancontact/Mister Cash
03 221 13 33: City Hall Antwerpen
03 233 22 11: Car problems (Touring Wegenhulp)
03 224 10 52: Car problems (VTB-VAB)
02 533 75 75: Europe Assistance
078 15 10 20: Drugsline: information about
drugs, alcohol,…
09 238 26 26: Holebifoon (for gay, lesbian and
bisexual people)
03 232 27 28: Youth Advice Centre: free help
with any kind of problem (JAC)
0800 173 64: Centre for Equal Opportunities
and Fight against Racism
03 271 16 16: Amnesty International
03 201 49 11: Lost and found objects
078 35 35 35: Electrabel Electricity and Gas
0800 15 802: Cancer Telephone, for help,
support and questions on Cancer
03 230 41 90: Child abuse centre – confidential
and anonymous
116 000: Child Focus, for information on
missing children
0800 13 14 4: ‘Teleblok’: for help, advice,
support on studying
03 239 14 15: Alcoholics Anonymous
1700: Flemish directory enquiries
0900 10 500: Chemists on duty
0900 10 512: GPs on duty
0903 99 691: Dentists on duty
03 202 57 33: Police prevention service
03 225 09 85: Housing Office Old City Centre,
for help and information on living in the city
03 292 31 70: Huis van de Student
0800 93 511: Telephone number to report
garbage dumps

15
list of EmbAssiEs And consulAtEs
http://diplomatie.belgium.be/en/services/
embassies_and_consulates/
This website offers all addresses of foreign
embassies and consulates in Belgium. It’s also
a prime reference point for up-to-date information
on visa and passport requirements.
16
bAnk holidAys
- November 1st: All Saints Day (Allerheiligen)
- November 2nd: All Souls Day (Allerzielen)
(public offices only)
- November 11th: Armistice Day
(Wapenstilstand)
- December 25th: Christmas Day (Kerstmis)
- December 26th: Boxing Day
(Tweede Kerstdag)
- January 1st: New Year’s Day (Nieuwjaar)
- Easter Sunday (Paaszondag)
- Easter Monday (Paasmaandag)
- May 1st: Labour Day (Feest van de Arbeid)
- 40 days after Easter: Ascension Day
(Onze Heer Hemelvaart)
- 50 days after Easter:
Whit Sunday (Pinksteren)
- 51 days after Easter:
Whit Monday (Pinkstermaandag)
- July 11th: Flemish Community Day
(Vlaamse Feestdag) (public offices only)
- July 21st: National Day (Nationale Feestdag)
- August 15th: Assumption Day
(Onze Lieve Vrouw Hemelvaart)
/117

118/

living aS a Student
in the city
you hAvE pickEd AntwErp As your collEgE town. wE’rE hAppy
for thAt. thE mEtropolis offErs quAlity coursEs, A host of
compAniEs looking for nEw, young tAlEnts, A stAggEring
culturE offEr And loAds of lEisurE ActivitiEs. living togEthEr
in A city with hAlf A million inhAbitAnts in A nicE And
rEspEctful wAy doEsn’t work without rulEs or AgrEEmEnts.
thE following pAgEs offEr A briEf ovErviEw of do’s And
don’ts, tips And tricks, rulEs And AgrEEmEnts thAt improvE
or fAcilitAtE living (togEthEr) in thE city.
/119

120/
1. living in An AntwErp studEnt room
1.1. Parties in student rooms
1.2. Lock your room
1.3. Prevention
1.4. Garbage disposal
2. stAging pArtiEs And EvEnts
2.1. Events in the public domain
2.2. Ragging
2.3. Mounting posters
3. cycling in thE city
3.1. Bike storage
3.2. Avoid bicycle theft
4. collEgiAl or collAtErAl
4.1. Vandalism
4.2. Graffiti
4.3. Public drunkenness
4.4. Spitting, vomiting, urinating and noise hindrance
5. pickpockEts

1. living in An AntwErp studEnt room
About 7000 students yearly trade in the parental nest for a student room
in the city. Chances are that you found your spot via Kotweb. It offers the
largest range of student accommodation in Antwerp and is moreover the
reference for top quality student accommodation and any information
relating to it.
The website/database is a unique collaboration between Antwerpen
Studentenstad, the Social Services of the Antwerp higher education establishments,
the city of Antwerp, the Antwerp fire brigade and the police.
Together we have drawn up transparent regulations, rights and obligations
concerning quality (fire and burglary) safety and a proper lease. All accommodation,
also that not appearing on Kotweb, is systematically checked
including for living conditions and fire safety. A quality label per premise
on Kotweb provides clear information about this. Furthermore, Kotweb
provides a standard lease for the benefit of students studying at Antwerp
educational establishments and for owners who let out property to these
students.
Should you encounter any problems with your landlord, report this to
the Social Services or International Offices of your host institution. If you
didn’t find your room through Kotweb, you can be referred to the Tenants’
union. With complaints on infrastructure you can turn to one of the various
‘Woonkantoren’ (Housing Offices) of the city council.
www.studentkotweb.be
1.1 PARTiES iN STuDENT RooMS
The city council doesn’t prohibit parties in student rooms, but if you stage
a party in your room, you’ll factually become an organizer of an event. That
means that you can be held liable in case of an accident or other mishaps.
Make sure your rental agreement allows you to organise a party and check
how many people your fire insurance covers.
Caution! Noise hindrance can and will be fined by the police or an administrative
officer. Even during the day noise hindrance is prohibited.
1.2 LoCK YouR RooM
Student rooms are popular targets for budding thieves or people in need of
quick money. Check www.studentkotweb.be for useful tips to prevent theft.
The local police provide free additional advice on burglary prevention.
Centrale Preventiedienst (Central Prevention Service)
Lokale Politie Antwerpen
Oudaan 5
2000 Antwerpen
T 03 338 57 33
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1.3 PREVENTioN
CARBoN MoNoxiDE PoiSoNiNG
Carbon monoxide is a highly toxic gas that can make you very ill and is potentially
lethal. Carbon monoxide poisoning has a wide range of symptoms
(nausea, vomiting, headache, passing out,...), making it hard to diagnose.
Be on your guard when your room has a device installed that could
produce carbon monoxide (water heaters, coal-, gas- or diesel-powered
products,...). Only electric heating devices don’t constitute any danger.
Want to find out more about carbon monoxide?
Surf to www.studentkotweb.be for loads of useful information.
Tip!
If you think that there’s an alarming build up of carbon monoxide in
your room, or if you just want to make sure, call upon the local Housing
Office for a free housing quality check.
Woonkantoor Binnenstad
(Housing Office Old City Centre)
Sint-Jacobsmarkt 42
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 225 09 85
Woonkantoor Centrum
(Housing Office Centre)
Driekoningenstraat 41
2600 Berchem
T +32 (0)3 218 40 75
Woonkantoor Deurne
(Housing Office Deurne)
Stenenbrug 75
2140 Borgerhout
T +32 (0)3 324 70 58
Woonkantoor Ekeren
(Housing Office Ekeren)
Veltwijcklaan 31
2180 Ekeren
T +32 (0)3 338 29 43
Woonkantoor Noord
(Housing Office North)
Lange Beeldekensstraat 219
2060 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 236 21 25
Woonkantoor Zuid
(Housing Office South)
Abdijstraat 253
2020 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 257 30 95
E woonkantoor@stad.
antwerpen.be
www.antwerpen.be/wonen
Ecohuis
Turnhoutsebaan 139
2140 Borgerhout
T +32 (0)3 217 08 11
E ecohuis@stad.antwerpen.be
www.antwerpen.be/ecohuis
FiRE
A few simple precautions suffice to greatly improve fire safety. Check
out www.studentkotweb.be for some tips. Home owners can ask (and
pay) the local fire station to check their house for fire safety.

1.4 GARBAGE DiSPoSAL
All citizens of Antwerp sort their garbage: there’s a different type of garbage
bag or container for every type of garbage.
If you live in a building with more than three student rooms, the owner is
obliged to provide garbage containers, so you won’t need to buy garbage
bags. Also, the owner is obliged to store paper and cardboard garbage in
designated blue 140- or 240-litre containers.
If you live in a building with bedsits, the owner is not obliged to provide
garbage containers and you’ll have to purchase garbage bags. For more
information on types of garbage bags, sorting and disposing of garbage:
www.studentkotweb.be.
GARBAGE CoLLECTioN SCHEDuLE
Every neighbourhood has a different refuse collection day. For the student
area, that day is Tuesday. This means that you need to put out the garbage
on Monday evening from 8 pm onwards. Important: it is forbidden to place
garbage on the street on another day than your designated collection day.
The fine can be up to 250 euro.
A garbage collection schedule is distributed to every resident. It contains information
on refuse collection days, different types of garbage, recycling centres,
collection of bulky refuse (such as furniture, doors, etc). If you haven’t
received a copy of the schedule or it got lost, you can obtain a new one from
the information desk of the district/community council, the ‘stadswinkel’
(city shop), print from www.antwerpen.be or via the telephone number
03 22 11 333. Owners of student rooms, student buildings or student community
houses are obliged to mount the collection schedules in one of the
communal rooms.
GARBAGE CoLLECTioN STREETS
In the student neighbourhood, just like in other areas of the city, you
can find garbage collections streets. If you have an admission pass you
can put your garbage bags there. Incredibly convenient for students
who don’t have a lot of space in their digs or who are not at home when
they come to collect the garbage. You can obtain and charge the pass
at the Huis van de Student. Surf to www.studentenkotweb.be for more
information.
BoTTLE BANKS
Bottle banks - the Belgian version - are scattered throughout the city.
Dispose of transparent and coloured bottles separately. The green half
of the bottle bank is for coloured glass, the white half for transparent
glass. Remember to remove corks, metal lids, etc before disposing of
the glass. The bottle banks may only be used between 7 am and 10 pm.
DuMPiNG REFuSE AND KiCKiNG oVER BiNS
Engaging in these activities may very well end up in a hefty fine. If
you see any dumped refuse, contact the ‘sluikstortlijn’ (dumping call
centre) and it’ll be collected immediately.
T 0800 93511 (free of charge)
E sluikstort@stad.antwerpen.be
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2. stAging pArtiEs &EvEnts
2.1 EVENTS iN THE PuBLiC DoMAiN
Occupying a square with friends, guitars, sofas and crates of beer without
permission is not allowed in the city and a bad, baaad idea. At that point
you’re making ‘private use of the public domain’. Meaning that you’re
staging an event without the mayor’s permission. The police will break up
the event and may take you to the station for interrogation. On top of that,
you could be fined 250 euro.
2. 2 RAGGiNG
Antwerpen Studentenstad has developed a ragging charter in collaboration
with the Antwerp Student Council and students’ fellowships. Every association
that rags in the public domain signs the charter.
Download the charter on www.antwerpenstudentenstad.be or email to
info@antwerpenstudentenstad.be.
2.3 MouNTiNG PoSTERS
If you’re staging an event for which you’ve designed a gem of a poster, you
should start wondering where to mount it. There are several boards and
poster columns in the city. Those are the only legal places to mount your
poster – provided you abide by a few simple rules, stated below. Not everyone
is allowed to mount posters, an overview of the lucky ones who are allowed:
Youth movements, students’ fellowships, associations of seniors, sports
clubs, socio-cultural movements and citizens (if advertising activities for the
community). For a list of boards and poster columns, visit:
www.antwerpenstudentenstad.be.
You don’t need permission to mount posters but it’s only allowed between 7
am and 10 pm. The posters may only be mounted from four weeks onwards
prior to the advertised event!
Important: police and city actively suppress illegal posting (on electricity
boxes for example). They fine up to 250 euro per illegally mounted poster.
Placing stickers on lamp post counts as illegal posting too.

3. cycling in thE city
Away with cars and long live public transport, your legs or the bicycle!
Cycling is literally the way forward in the city. It is healthy and environment
friendly, there’s no need for car parks or queuing on the ring road. In short:
the bike is the best way to get around town.
Want to hire a bike for a short or a long period? In the ‘Bike’ section of the
Yellow Pages, you can read everything about Fietshaven and Velo. How does
hiring a bike beat owning your very own velocipede? Maintenance is done
by the owners. And in the end, that’s a basic requirement for a good bike.
3.1 BiKE SToRAGE
Don’t just leave your bike on the pavement if you’re away for a while. The
city council actively seeks to keep the streets free from bicycle wrecks
(a bike with two or more visible flaws is considered a wreck). Chances are
that the police will remove your bike from the street. Installing public bike
storage is a work in progress, there already are a few spots where you can
safely store your bike. There’s one on floor -1 under Central Station and another
one near Berchem Station. Often there’s bike storage near institutes of
higher education too.
The university colleges and university provide long term bike storage during
summer holidays. Inform at your host institution for the exact whereabouts.
3.2 AVoiD BiCYCLE THEFT
Have your bike marked. The Antwerp police marks your bike for free. They
use the state registry number on your passport or ID. The code is unique and
makes it easy to return bikes to their rightful owners. The police also provide
you with a bicycle ID. Keep it with you, as few people can describe their
bike very well. For more information on marking your bike: www.5345.be/
fietsgraveren/fietsgraveren.html.
More useful tips for avoiding bicycle theft on www.antwerpenstudentenstad.be.
Report your stolen bikes to the police. You don’t have to go to the police
station, just do it quickly and easily via www.policeonweb.be.
Was your bike removed or stolen?
Make sure to regularly check www.gevondenfietsen.be. All found bikes are
reported on the website for a period of six months.
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126/
4. collEgiAl or collAtErAl?
Student life means studying and having fun. The line between fun and hindrance/
trouble is drawn below. If you don’t abide these regulations, you’ll risk a
fine which can ascend from 60 to 250 euro.
4.1 VANDALiSM
Every instance of vandalism is brought before the office of the public prosecutor.
He will decide whether you’ll be prosecuted with the risk of the owner suing
you as well, or that you’ll be fined or sanctioned otherwise.
4.2 GRAFFiTi
Is illegal. Placing drawings or a tag is annoying and absolutely prohibited.
If you get caught, you’ll have to pay a fine and the costs of restoring the damaged
good. If you soiled several goods, you’ll be brought to court. Chances are
that the owner of the damaged good will sue you.
Graffiti is allowed at a limited number of locations. You can find these on
www.jongeren.antwerpen.be.
Graffiti or a tag on your façade? Can’t look past the posters mounted everywhere?
The city council removes graffiti and stickers in public and private domain for free.
4.3 PuBLiC DRuNKENNESS
Public drunkenness is a penal offence. You could be put in jail by the police
to sleep it off. Your file will be forwarded to the public prosecutor and if
you’re lucky he’ll just tick your name. In other cases, if for example you
disturb the peace, make excessive noise or engage in a brawl, the punishment
will be more severe.
4.4 SPiTTiNG, VoMiTiNG, uRiNATiNG AND NoiSE HiNDRANCE
All of these activities are prohibited in the public domain. Police constables
and administrative officials will fine you!
Keep your decibels in check. Residents have every right to be annoyed.
Respect the silence between 10 pm and 7 am. Also during the day you could
get in trouble if you make too much noise.

5 pickpockEts
Are of all times. Antwerp is generally safe, but nevertheless it is prudent to
take good care of your bank card, mobile phone, laptop or handbag. Visit
www.antwerpenstudentenstad.be for tips to make life more difficult for
pickpockets.
Victim of a pickpocket?
If you do become a victim of a pickpocket, you witnessed the theft and the
suspects are still around, call 101 and ask bystanders to help you. In all other
cases, report the crime to the police as soon as possible.
Stolen bank card?
If your bank card is stolen, immediately block your card via CARD-stop: dial
070 344 344.
important: attempted theft is punishable too. If, for example, someone has
his hand in your handbag, but hasn’t as yet stolen your wallet, ask bystanders
to help restrain the thief and call 101.
Stolen mobile phone?
Report theft of your mobile phone to the police and make the operator block
your phone number. You’ll need the IMEI-number for that (15 digits – dial
*#06# on your mobile Phone) and the SIM-card number (4 digits on the back
of your SIM-card). Make sure you write these numbers down and keep them
with you. Make sure the operator only blocks your phone number, as the
police will need your IMEI to indentify and track down your mobile phone.
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antwerpen StudentenStad
Antwerpen Studentenstad is a non-profit organisation, the fruit of
a cooperation between the city of Antwerp, the Antwerp University
Association and the Antwerps Studentenoverleg (Antwerp Student
Council).
Antwerpen Studentenstad promotes Antwerp as an attractive and
high quality student city. She strives for sufficient and high-quality
housing, a clean and safe traffic student district, cheap rental bikes,
beneficial cultural and sports offers, cheap and safe party areas and
clear policies with respect to mounting posters and ragging, and
much more.
More information on www.antwerpenstudentenstad.be
HOuSe OF THe STuDenT
Students can direct all their questions on studying and living in Antwerp
to the Huis van de Student (House of the Student):
Sint-Jacobsmarkt 16
2000 Antwerpen
T +32 (0)3 292 31 70
E info@antwerpenstudentenstad.be
opening hours:
• Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 5 pm
• Friday from 10 am to 3 pm
• check the website for opening hours during school holidays
>>> This map (in Dutch) is offered by STUVANT >>>

MoRe?
- DOwNLOAD THE STUDENT GUIDE ANTwErP APPLICATION
VIA www.ANTwErPENSTUDENTENSTAD.bE:
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THAT UNVEILS YOUr NExT DESTINATION
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